China focuses on further improving departure tax refund policies and bolstering inbound consumption in a statement released by six departments on May 18, rolling out new measures such as expanding tax-refund stores and random inspections on smaller claims.

Starting July 1, 2026, random spot checks will be conducted on a proportional basis for tax refund applications with goods valued below 10,000 yuan. All applications valued at 10,000 yuan or more will still undergo an item-by-item physical inspection.

Eligible retailers can access the registration as tax-refund stores with an interior spatial layout adjustment. Local governments can expand tax-refund services to key business districts, scenic areas, markets and ports mostly visited by overseas visitors.

In addition, instant tax refund services will be further upgraded with cross-regional recognition enabled. Travelers obtain instant refunds at the point of purchase to complete verification at a different departure port. The allowable departure period will be extended to 28 days nationwide.

Authorities will push forward paperless processing so that customs and refund agencies can verify refund applications and invoices online.