Ningbo expands tax refund stores to attract global shoppers

International tourists enjoy an instant tax refund service in Ningbo. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

Ningbo is ramping up efforts to improve its tax refund system for international tourists. As of Aug 4, the city features more than 50 designated tax refund stores, with more than 10 added this year.

The departure tax refund policy allows foreign visitors to reclaim value-added tax on eligible purchases when leaving China. As an early adopter of this system, Ningbo has strategically placed refund stores across key districts and tourist areas such as Haishu, Yinzhou, and Beilun.

In addition to adding stores, Ningbo is diversifying its product offerings, emphasizing domestic brands and heritage items like Peacebird apparel and Yuankang cloth. The city is also promoting an instant tax refund service to streamline the process. At Hankyu Ningbo, one overseas tourist recently received over 4,000 yuan ($556) in cash refunds for a luxury purchase. According to Hankyu's finance manager, since the launch of the instant tax refund service in May, July's refund orders surged by 60 percent compared to April.

Looking ahead, Ningbo plans to add more refund stores in major shopping areas, scenic spots, and hotels, aiming to boost convenience and highlight Ningbo-made products to the world.