Core Viewpoint - Shanghai aims to enhance its status as a leading international consumption center by optimizing the outbound tax refund environment, with a target of over 3,000 tax refund stores and more than 10,000 outlets by 2027, focusing on a seamless "buy, verify, refund" experience for travelers [1][2]. Group 1: Expansion of Tax Refund Network - Shanghai will increase the number of tax refund stores in major commercial areas, tourist attractions, and airports, ensuring comprehensive coverage in areas with high foreign visitor traffic [5]. - By 2027, the outbound tax refund consumption scale is expected to quadruple compared to 2024, with domestic brand tax refund sales accounting for over 30% [2][8]. - The city has already processed tax refunds for over 63,000 travelers from 167 countries this year, with a significant increase in "buy and refund" sales [2][6]. Group 2: Technological Innovations - The introduction of self-service tax refund machines allows travelers to quickly generate tax refund applications by scanning their passport and invoices [2]. - Shanghai has launched an upgraded "buy and refund + convenient payment" model, enabling instant tax refunds through Alipay for inbound tourists [2][9]. - The city plans to install smart tax refund terminals at major airports and high-volume refund stores to facilitate self-service tax refund processes [8][9]. Group 3: Product Diversification and Quality Improvement - The tax refund program will focus on promoting Shanghai's unique products, including local crafts and cultural items, to enhance the shopping experience for international visitors [8]. - There will be an emphasis on increasing the supply of high-quality domestic brands, including traditional brands and innovative products, to attract more foreign consumers [8][7]. - The initiative aims to create flagship stores for domestic brands and establish tax refund shopping landmarks in the city [8][7]. Group 4: Simplification of Processes - The tax refund store registration process will be streamlined, allowing new businesses to quickly become part of the tax refund network [7]. - The city will provide financial support for tax refund stores to acquire necessary equipment, with subsidies covering up to 50% of costs [5]. - The minimum purchase amount for tax refunds has been lowered to 200 yuan, and the cash refund limit has been increased to 20,000 yuan for eligible travelers [9].