Tax refunds for more visitors

Overseas visitors can now claim tax refunds on purchases made across China, after the State Council decision to introduce a nationwide tax refund policy in January became operational this week.

Tourists from foreign countries and those from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan who have lived on the Chinese mainland for no more than 183 days will be eligible for a rebate of 11 percent on consumer goods bought at designated department stores.

The minimum purchase to qualify for a tax refund is 500 yuan ($80.6) at any one store in a day.