Tax refunds lure more foreign tourists to China, boosting travel and shopping.
On April 15, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) reported that in the first quarter of 2024, the number of inbound and outbound travelers at China’s ports reached 163 million, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase. By March 31, 921,500 foreign nationals had entered the country through various ports, a sharp rise of 40.2% compared to the same period last year.
Major international hubs and tourist destinations—such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shaanxi—saw a significant increase in foreign visitors. Additionally, a new policy introduced by the State Taxation Administration on April 8, allowing "instant tax refunds for overseas tourists upon purchase" (即买即退), has further enhanced convenience for international travelers.