Eight measures were announced on departure tax refunding policies to enhance the experience of foreign tourists, such as expanding coverage of tax-refund stores, adopting random spot checks on low-value refund applications, and upgrading instant tax refund services, according to a joint statement issued by authorities on Monday.

More eligible retailers can access registration as tax-refund stores and then adjust the interior layout in the outlets. Local authorities will select candidate stores in some key business districts, scenic spots, markets, and ports with large flows of overseas visitors, considering the coverage of the tax refunding service.

Refund applications for purchased goods under 10,000 yuan by oversea tourists will be subjected to random spot checks from July 1, 2026, while the applications at or beyond that threshold will still be required to full verification.

Departure tax refund services policies will be further improved with cross-regional recognition. Foreign travelers can apply for instant tax refunds at any departure ports instead of the ones where goods are purchased. Meanwhile, the application period for instant tax refund will be extended to 28 days across the country.

Customs authorities and designated agencies will undergo a paperless tax refund procedure by verifying tax refund application forms and sales invoices online and processing refunding digitally.

Supporting measures, like departure tax refund service zones, will be taken to facilitate shopping and tax refunds for business attendees at major expos such as the China International Import Expo, Canton Fair, and China International Consumer Products Expo. Also, more international routes will be registered for foreign tourists to visit China.