Attention, please! Good news to anyone who plan to visit China!
Recently, China rolled out a big upgrade to its departure tax refund policy, including more tax refund stores, random spot checks on low-value goods and online instant tax refund services. These will make shopping in China easier, faster, and more convenient. 

More Tax Refund Stores, Easier to Find 

Tax-refund stores will be available in key commercial districts, scenic spots, markets and ports, making it accessible to tax refunds around in shopping, sightseeing or departing.
Tax refund service zones will be set up at major exhibition events like the China International Import Expo (CIIE), Canton Fair, and China International Consumer Products Expo for oversea merchants and visitors. 

Shorter Waiting Times at Customs Inspections 

Starting July 1, 2026, tax refund applications under RMB 10,000 will be subject to random physical inspections at a set ratio, and it will shorten queuing time at ports. Applications of RMB 10,000 or more will be checked on a case-by-case basis. 

Paperless Tax Refund Processing - Fast&Easy 

Also from July 1, 2026, customs authorities and designated agencies will be allowed to verify tax refund application forms and sales invoices online and to process refunds digitally, in a paperless procedures. Oversea travelers might still applied for for tax refunds through paper-based channel. 

“Instant Tax Refund” with Cross-Region Recognition for Greater Flexibility 

Instant tax refund service is to be upgraded with cross-regional proceeding across China. Overseas visitors can complete all departure tax refund at ports across different regions. Valid departure period for tax refunds is extended to 28 days nationwide, enabling to arrange cross-region and long-distance trips at greater ease.
For example, if you buy and apply for instant tax refunds in Guangzhou, then travel to Shanghai, Suzhou and other cities, and finally leave China from Fujian, you can finish customs inspection and release pre-authorization guarantee at ports in Fujian other than back to Guangzhou. 

Shopping easier, tax refunding faster and travelling more flexible, and hassle-free experience! Welcome to China!