The version 2.0 of departure tax refund policy has been launched.Shopping in China is easier and more convenient for overseas travelers.

On May 18,six government departments including the Ministry of Commerce issued a notice to further optimize departure tax refund measures and expand inbound consumption.

What are the specific new measures?Let's take a look!

Firstly, increase the coverage rate of tax refund stores. More eligible retailers are encouraged to register as departure tax refund stores and optimize their geographic distribution. Localities are supported in expanding such services in key business districts, tourist attractions, markets and ports with large numbers of overseas travelers, so as to basically achieve full coverage of tax refund stores in key venues.

Secondly, adopt a random inspection system for smaller refund claims. Starting from July 1, 2026, physical item verification will be conducted by random sampling at a certain ratio for refund applications involving purchases of less than 10,000 yuan, while applications at or above that threshold will still be inspected one by one.

Thirdly, improve the "refund-upon-purchase" services. The "refund-upon-purchase services" will be further upgraded and the cross-regional mutual recognition will be promoted. Tourists who receive instant refunds at the point of purchase can complete final verification at a different departure port. The time limit for completing departure procedures under the instant refund program will be uniformly extended to 28 days nationwide.

Fourthly, implement paperless processing for tax refunds. From July 1, 2026, customs authorities and tax refund agencies will be allowed to verify refund application forms and sales invoices online, enabling the entire refund procedure to be handled digitally.

Fifthly, build a tax refund service platform for exhibitions. Dedicated tax refund service areas will be set up at major exhibitions, including the China International Import Expo, the China Import and Export Fair and the China International Consumer Products Expo, to facilitate purchases and refund services for overseas buyers attending the events.

Sixthly, improve the consumption environment for overseas travelers. Cities designated as international consumption hubs or pilot zones for globalized retail environments are encouraged to expand tax refund services, improve payment convenience and build globally competitive shopping districts. Additional international passenger flights will be promoted to make travel to China easier for overseas travelers.

Seventhly, strengthen promotion of tax refund policy. Diversified promotional materials on departure tax refund policy will be distributed via inbound flights, airports, hotels, mainstream media and other channels to help overseas travelers easily access relevant information.

Eighthly, conduct overseas promotion of China's tax refund policy. In conjunction with building the "Shopping in China" brand, overseas publicity and promotion activities will be conducted to further raise global awareness of the policy.