商务部：将积极会同相关部门加快推进离境退税政策落实落地

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese government is optimizing the departure tax refund policy to enhance inbound consumption and improve the shopping experience for foreign travelers, marking the 10th anniversary of the policy's implementation in China [2][3]. Group 1: Policy Background and Objectives - The departure tax refund policy allows foreign travelers to reclaim VAT on purchases made in designated stores upon leaving the country, aligning with practices in over 50 countries [2]. - The initiative is part of the broader strategy to implement the decisions made during the 20th National Congress, aiming to enhance the convenience of life for foreign visitors [3]. - In 2024, inbound traveler spending is projected to reach $94.2 billion, reflecting a 77.8% increase, indicating significant potential for growth in inbound consumption [3]. Group 2: Key Measures in the Notification - The notification outlines eight policy measures to address issues such as the limited number of tax refund stores and the need for a wider variety of products [2][5]. - Key highlights include expanding the number of tax refund stores in high-traffic areas, lowering the minimum purchase amount for refunds from 500 yuan to 200 yuan, and enhancing the overall service quality for tax refunds [5][6]. - The government aims to improve the accessibility of tax refund stores and increase the range of domestic products available for tax refunds, thereby promoting local brands [5][6]. Group 3: Expected Outcomes - The optimized policy is expected to stimulate consumption, enhance the effectiveness of the tax refund system, and contribute to the growth of the tourism sector [4][6]. - The initiative is also seen as a means to facilitate high-level opening up and promote the dual circulation of international and domestic markets [4]. - The five designated international consumption center cities (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin, and Chongqing) are anticipated to see a doubling in the number of inbound foreign visitors in 2024 compared to the previous year [6].