- From 1 July 2026, China will simplify customs checks for VAT refund claims under CNY 10,000, using random inspections instead of mandatory checks; higher-value claims will still be fully verified.
- The change is meant to cut airport and port queues and waiting times.
- China will expand authorised VAT refund stores and increase paperless, digital refund processing.
- Tourists using instant refunds can complete customs formalities at departure points and have 28 days to leave China and validate claims.
- The reforms follow strong 2025 growth in tax-free shopping and are aimed at boosting tourism, retail sales, and foreign visitor spending.
Source: fiscal-requirements.com
Note that this post was (partially) written with the help of AI. It is always useful to review the original source material, and where needed to obtain (local) advice from a specialist.
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