The total value of tax-refund goods handled by airports in Beijing exceeded 1 billion yuan (more than 150 million U.S. dollars) in the first seven months of this year, driven by optimized policies and foreign travelers' growing interest in China's shopping experience.
As China is moving to make shopping easier and more convenient for overseas travelers, the State Taxation Administration has introduced new measures to make departure tax refund services more digital and convenient for overseas visitors.
These measures will enable the electronic transfer of tax refund applications and sales invoices, supporting paperless processing throughout the entire refund procedure.
Streamlined refund procedures, combined with the diversity, cost-effectiveness and quality of Chinese goods, have enhanced China's appeal to foreign travelers.
Statistics from Beijing Customs showed that more than 130,000 tax refund applications were filed by passengers departing from Beijing Capital International Airport and Daxing International Airport in the first seven months of 2026, marking a year-on-year increase of 516.13 percent.
Meanwhile, the total value of tax-refund goods applied for exceeded 1 billion yuan, up 45.01 percent, with the corresponding tax refund amount reaching 131 million yuan, up 50.21 percent.
"We buy very many clothes because in China, there are cool clothes. The price is so good, the price for everything," a tourist from Mongolia.
Other travelers also praised the convenience of payment systems and transport in China, saying they look forward to visiting again.
"I just want to come back again and again and again. It's like my holiday, every time, each year, I want to come here," said a Portuguese tourist.
"We pay everything with Alipay and it actually works well," said another tourist from Portugal.
Liang Shu, a customs officer at Beijing Capital International Airport, said the variety of purchases has expanded beyond traditional items.
"Our verification system shows that in addition to everyday items like luggage and clothing, domestically produced digital products such as phones and headphones are also becoming increasingly popular. Cultural and creative souvenirs with distinctive Chinese characteristics, as well as trendy blind boxes, are gradually becoming must-have favorites for inbound travelers," said Liang.
Many couldn't wait to share their China stories before leaving.
"We have already shared pictures, we are experiencing things which are different to ours. We have even shared information with some friends who already were here last year," said a Spanish tourist.
Total value of tax-refund goods at Beijing ports exceeds 1 bln yuan in Jan-July period
