Tax-Free Shopping
This information is as of 2026/08/11.
Tax-free schemes may change due to policy updates. Check the latest rules.
Eligibility Requirements
Who qualifies for tax-free purchases
Tax type: VAT
Tax rate: 13% (general goods)
Eligible travelers: Foreign nationals and Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan residents staying less than 183 days
Stay limit: Must depart within 90 days of purchase
Minimum Purchase Amount
Spending threshold for tax-free eligibility
Minimum amount: CNY 500 (approx. USD 70) per store per day
Currency: CNY
In-Store Procedure
Steps to follow when buying tax-free
- Shop at stores with the "Tax Refund" logo
- Present passport and request a tax refund form
- Pay and keep receipt with the refund form
Airport Refund Process
Customs procedure at departure
- Before check-in: declare goods at customs for inspection
- Get customs stamp on refund form
- After immigration: visit the tax refund counter
Refund Methods
Cash, credit card, or bank transfer options
- Cash (CNY)
- Bank transfer
- Alipay/WeChat refund (at select airports)
Processing time: Cash: immediate; Transfer: 2-4 weeks
Excluded Items
Products not eligible for tax exemption
- Food and beverages
- Tobacco and alcohol
- Goods prohibited from export
- Used items
Tax-Free Shop Info
Major shops and areas offering tax-free service
Tax-free operators: China Tax Refund (government-run), Global Blue (limited cities)
Popular areas: Beijing (Wangfujing, SKP), Shanghai (Nanjing Road, IFC Mall), Hainan Island (duty-free city)
Tax-Free Tips
Tips for a smooth tax refund experience
- Hainan Island has a separate generous duty-free policy (CNY 100,000/year)
- Tax refund rate is 11% (after handling fee from 13% VAT)
- Available at Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other major airports
- Some stores process the refund digitally via QR code