人民日报：“退税过程比喝杯咖啡还快”（中国游中国购）

Core Insights - The article highlights the growing trend of international tourists in Hainan, particularly in Sanya, where the tax refund process has been streamlined to enhance the shopping experience for visitors [2][3]. Group 1: Tax Refund Process - The threshold for applying for a tax refund has been lowered from 500 yuan to 200 yuan, making it more accessible for international travelers [2]. - Tourists can receive tax refunds immediately at designated points in shopping malls, with options for cash or instant transfers via Alipay or WeChat [2][3]. - The entire tax refund process is described as being very quick, taking less time than enjoying a cup of coffee [2]. Group 2: Visitor Experience - The proportion of independent travelers among international visitors in Sanya has reached approximately 50%, indicating a shift towards more personalized and immersive travel experiences [3]. - The number of inbound overnight tourists in Hainan has increased by 31.7% year-on-year, reaching 652,900 visitors in the first half of the year [3]. - The implementation of multilingual guides and smart regulatory systems has improved the customs clearance process for international travelers [3]. Group 3: Future Improvements - There are ongoing efforts to expand the network of tax refund shops, addressing concerns from some merchants about the application process [5]. - The government is working on optimizing the registration process and providing training to encourage more businesses to participate in the tax refund program [5].