Travelers who make purchases in specified areas can apply for an 11% VAT refund in accordance with the “Notice regarding the Policy on Overseas Shopping Departure Tax Rebate” issued by the Ministry of Finance (MOF).
The MOF policy was extended from the tax rebate trial in Hainan implemented since January 1 2011. The State Administration of Taxation and Customs Administration will now issue respective documents for implementing the policy nationwide.
This policy will be implemented in areas that meet requirements. The range of applicable ports and products has been expanded and the rebate starting point has been lowered from RMB800 to RMB500.
The taxation and customs authorities are now accepting proposals from applicable areas and will release a policy implementation timetable and zone list soon. (Translation by David)
