China has introduced upgraded departure tax refund measures to make shopping easier and more convenient for international visitors. Effective July 1, the new “Departure Tax Refund 2.0” system features a fully paperless process using a single QR code and random inspections for tax refund claims below 10,000 yuan.

The digital system allows travellers to complete refund procedures quickly without paper forms, while participating retailers also benefit from faster, more efficient processing. Low-value refund claims are now inspected only on a random basis, reducing waiting times at airports and border checkpoints.

The improved policy has encouraged more foreign tourists to shop for Chinese products, while businesses are seeing increased customer traffic and sales. Authorities are also expanding the number of tax-refund stores and instant refund service points nationwide to further enhance the shopping experience for overseas visitors.

Source: People’s Daily