China’s tourism hack: Instant tax refunds, instant results
By combining visa-free entry for dozens of countries with point-of-purchase tax refunds, China is strategically transforming international tourism into a powerful economic driver.
Crowds throng Nanjing Road in Shanghai, China. On April 8, 2025, China’s State Taxation Administration announced the nationwide expansion of its instant tax refund policy, allowing overseas travelers to receive tax rebates at the point of purchase. The move, combined with visa-free entry for dozens of countries, is aimed at transforming inbound tourism into a key economic driver. Image: Getty Images
Crowds throng Nanjing Road in Shanghai, China. On April 8, 2025, China’s State Taxation Administration announced the nationwide expansion of its instant tax refund policy, allowing overseas travelers to receive tax rebates at the point of purchase. The move, combined with visa-free entry for dozens of countries, is aimed at transforming inbound tourism into a key economic driver. Image: Getty Images
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