China expands instant tax refunds to boost spending

Starting April 8, China will launch nationwide instant tax refunds for outbound travelers, aiming to lift foreign tourist spending and revive duty-free retail momentum.

• China welcomes back 131 million inbound travelers in 2024, up 60.8% YoY, with spending reaching $94.2B, a 77.8% surge.

• Nationwide “instant tax refund at purchase” policy begins April 8, streamlining rebates for foreign tourists and incentivizing on-the-spot spending.

• Refund rates vary by VAT level, with 13% VAT items seeing 11% refunds and 9% VAT items yielding 8% refunds.

A major upgrade to China’s tourist retail infrastructure

In a significant move to stimulate inbound tourism and duty-free consumption, China will roll out its “instant tax refund” policy nationwide from April 8, 2025.