新华全媒+丨多部门详解进一步优化离境退税政策扩大入境消费

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese government is optimizing the departure tax refund policy to enhance inbound consumption and improve the shopping experience for foreign travelers, which is seen as a crucial step in boosting domestic consumption and promoting high-level opening-up of the economy [3][4]. Group 1: Policy Overview - The departure tax refund policy allows foreign travelers to receive a refund of the value-added tax (VAT) on goods purchased in China when they leave the country, which is a common practice internationally [3]. - Since its implementation in 2015, China has offered a significant refund rate of 11% on most goods, effectively refunding the entire VAT [4]. - The new policy aims to address issues such as the limited number of tax refund stores and the lack of diverse product offerings, proposing eight measures to enhance the shopping experience [4][5]. Group 2: Key Measures - The policy encourages the establishment of more tax refund stores in high-traffic areas such as shopping districts, tourist attractions, and airports, while relaxing the conditions for store registration [5][6]. - The minimum purchase amount for tax refunds has been reduced from 500 yuan to 200 yuan, expanding the range of eligible products to include more domestic brands and specialty items [5][6]. - The cash refund limit has been increased from 10,000 yuan to 20,000 yuan to accommodate diverse payment preferences among foreign travelers [7]. Group 3: Market Potential - In 2024, China's total inbound traveler spending is projected to reach 94.2 billion USD, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 77.8%, indicating significant growth potential in inbound consumption [4]. - The share of inbound consumption in China's GDP is approximately 0.5%, compared to 1% to 3% in major countries, highlighting room for growth [4]. Group 4: Implementation and Efficiency - The customs authority has outlined measures to enhance the efficiency of tax refund verification, including ensuring that refund items are carried by travelers and are in unused condition [8]. - The Civil Aviation Administration of China is working to increase international flight services and improve airport facilities to better serve foreign travelers [8].