湖北开出首单境外旅客离境退税

Group 1 - The implementation of the outbound tax refund policy for foreign travelers in Hubei aims to stimulate the consumption market and attract more international tourists to the region [1][2] - The policy allows foreign travelers to receive a refund of the value-added tax (VAT) on eligible purchases made at designated stores upon departure from the country [2] - The first customer to benefit from this policy was a foreign teacher from the UK, who purchased items totaling 1,968 yuan and received a tax refund of 177.12 yuan [1] Group 2 - The Hubei Provincial Finance Department has announced the first batch of 57 stores eligible for the outbound tax refund program, marking a significant step in promoting international consumption facilitation [1] - The tax refund threshold has been significantly lowered from 500 yuan to 200 yuan, expanding the policy's benefits to a larger number of travelers [2] - The cash refund limit has been increased from 10,000 yuan to 20,000 yuan, and the transfer refund limit has been removed, enhancing the shopping experience for both small and high-end consumers [2]