Core Insights - The summer travel peak has led to a significant increase in inbound and outbound passenger flow at Hangzhou Airport, with 459,600 travelers recorded in July, marking a 5.88% year-on-year increase and a 12.98% month-on-month increase [1][2] - The airport has seen a rise in international and regional flight capacity, with an average of over 86 flights per day in July, an 8% increase from the previous month [2] - The implementation of visa exemptions and the "buy and refund" tax policy has stimulated consumer spending among international travelers [4] Passenger Flow and Flight Capacity - The average daily passenger volume reached 14,800, with peak days exceeding 15,000 travelers on 14 occasions [1] - The number of operational international and regional passenger routes has reached 35, enhancing connectivity [3] - Popular destinations such as Japan and emerging markets like Dubai and Almaty have seen increased flight frequencies [2] Policy Benefits and Consumer Spending - The "buy and refund" tax policy has led to a significant increase in tax refund applications, with over 2,017 applications and a total refund amount exceeding 10.09 million yuan, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 146.58% and 120.16% respectively [4] - New tax refund stores have been established at the airport, allowing travelers to complete shopping and tax refund processes conveniently [4] Customs and Service Enhancements - The customs authority has implemented innovative measures to improve efficiency, such as dual pre-checks for luggage and a streamlined inspection process [5] - Special assistance is provided for vulnerable groups, ensuring a smooth passage through customs [5] - A one-stop service for tax refunds has been established, enhancing the efficiency of the refund process [5]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the news highlights the successful implementation of the "immediate tax refund" service in Hangzhou, which has significantly boosted consumption among international tourists [1][2] - The "immediate tax refund" service allows foreign tourists to receive tax refunds at the point of purchase, enhancing their shopping experience and encouraging additional spending [1][3] - Hangzhou has become the only city in China that allows tax refunds to be directly credited to Alipay accounts, showcasing its unique approach to tax refund services [2] Group 2 - Since the launch of the tax refund program in September 2023, Hangzhou has seen a remarkable increase in sales of tax refund eligible goods, reaching 110 million yuan in 2024, a 130% year-on-year growth [2] - The tax refund amount for the same period reached approximately 11.22 million yuan, indicating a strong uptake of the program among international visitors [2] - The eligibility criteria for the tax refund include a minimum purchase amount of 200 yuan in designated stores, and the goods must be unused and taken out of the country within 90 days of purchase [3]

Core Insights - During the "May Day" holiday period (May 1-5), Shanghai's tax refund sales for departing tourists increased by 150% year-on-year, with the tax refund amount rising by 170% year-on-year [1] Group 1: Policy Impact - The new tax refund policy lowered the minimum refund threshold from 500 yuan to 200 yuan, which has stimulated participation from traditional food industry players [1] Group 2: Industry Participation - Notable century-old shops in Shanghai, such as Taikang Food and Shao Wansheng, have completed the necessary registration to participate in the tax refund program [1] - Other well-known brands, including Xinghua Lou, Huang Longtai, and First Food, are actively preparing to join the program [1]