Core Insights - The departure tax refund policy plays a significant role in attracting foreign tourists and stimulating consumption, with a nearly 100% year-on-year increase in nationwide departure tax refund sales in the first half of the year [1] - The "Shopping in China" initiative has become a popular choice for both domestic residents and international tourists, supported by various promotional activities [1] Group 1: Policy and Activities - The "Shopping in China" series of activities is characterized by a synergistic approach of "policy + activities," with the Ministry of Commerce and other departments issuing guidelines to enhance the attractiveness of the initiative [2] - Departure tax refund sales have nearly doubled year-on-year, with over 7,200 departure tax refund stores established, representing an approximately 80% increase compared to the end of 2024 [2] Group 2: Regional and Cultural Integration - Local regions leverage their unique resources and cultural characteristics to organize distinctive "Shopping in China" events, catering to diverse consumer needs [2] - For instance, Shenzhen showcased technological innovations through a "Smart Summer Brand Exhibition," while Guangxi promoted local agricultural products through the "ASEAN Fruit Gathering in Guangxi" event [2] Group 3: Multi-Dimensional Consumption Experience - Various regions focus on integrating shopping, dining, tourism, and cultural performances to create diverse consumption scenarios [3] - Shanghai's "Summer in Shanghai International Consumption Season" featured ten flagship activities, attracting approximately 2.6 million visitors to the "Ancient Egyptian Civilization Exhibition" [3] - The Tianjin "Haihe International Consumption Season" implemented a "Ticket Discount Plan" to enhance the synergy between exhibitions, performances, and events, unlocking the potential for multi-scenario consumption [3] Future Directions - The Ministry of Commerce plans to continue guiding local governments in organizing the "Shopping in China" series, aiming to provide richer offerings, higher quality services, and more diverse experiences for both domestic residents and inbound tourists [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the Departure Tax Refund Policy in China, which allows overseas visitors to claim a refund on Value-Added Tax (VAT) for eligible goods purchased in tax refund stores when leaving the mainland [3][4]. Summary by Sections Eligibility for Tax Refund - Overseas visitors must meet specific conditions to apply for a departure tax refund, including a minimum purchase amount of 200 RMB at the same store on the same day [4]. - The goods must not have been used or consumed, and the departure date must be within 90 days of the purchase [4]. Tax Refund Rates - Goods purchased at a tax rate of 13% are eligible for a refund rate of 11%, while those at a 9% tax rate have a refund rate of 8% [5]. Calculation of Refundable VAT - The refundable VAT amount is calculated as the total sales invoice amount (including VAT) multiplied by the applicable tax refund rate [7]. - The actual VAT refunded is the refundable VAT amount minus any service fees charged by the tax refund agency [7]. Refund Process - The refund process involves several steps: purchasing tax-refundable goods, customs verification, and applying for the refund through a tax refund agency [9][8][14]. - For amounts up to 20,000 RMB, refunds can be received in cash or via bank transfer; amounts exceeding 20,000 RMB must be refunded through bank transfer only [7]. Instant Tax Refund Policy - The "Instant Tax Refund" policy allows overseas visitors to receive an advance payment equivalent to the tax refund amount on-site at designated stores after signing an agreement and completing credit card pre-authorization [10]. - Visitors must be verified by customs upon departure and comply with the departure tax refund policy [11]. Purchase Limits - The total amount of tax-refundable goods that the same overseas visitor can apply for at the same store on the same day is capped at 222,000 RMB [16]. Tax Refund Stores - The article lists various tax refund stores in Taizhou City, which are eligible for the departure tax refund policy [17][18][19][20][21][22][23].

Core Viewpoint - Shenzhen has expanded its duty-free shopping network with over 400 stores now offering immediate tax refunds for international travelers [1] Group 1: Duty-Free Shopping Expansion - The Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Commerce and the State Taxation Administration of Shenzhen have jointly released the ninth batch of duty-free store listings [1] - The stores cover various sectors including electronics, fashion apparel, and home products [1] - The immediate tax refund service allows international travelers to receive a refund in RMB equivalent to the tax amount at the point of purchase after signing an agreement and processing a credit card pre-authorization [1]