Shopping and convenience stores in China

Convenience stores

In major cities, stores may sell drinks, snacks, prepared meals, toiletries, charging accessories and umbrellas.

Malls

Chinese malls often combine retail, restaurants, cafés, cinemas and supermarkets.

Departure tax refund

Current national rules generally require:

• at least ¥200 of eligible purchases;
• purchases from the same participating store on the same day;
• goods unused and unconsumed;
• departure within 90 days of purchase;
• departure within 183 days of your most recent entry.

Since July 1, 2026, applications involving goods below ¥10,000 are generally subject to random rather than universal physical inspection.

Goods at ¥10,000 or above may receive item-by-item inspection.

Refund Upon Purchase

China has also expanded Refund Upon Purchase (即买即退) services.

Under the 2026 national framework, participating transactions generally require departure within 28 days.

Local implementation can vary.

Keep documents

For tax-refund purchases, keep receipts, refund documentation and goods available for inspection where required.