Q: What documents are required to purchase duty-free goods?

A: Passengers generally need to present a valid travel document, such as a passport, together with a boarding pass or other valid proof of travel.

Arrival duty-free purchases must be completed before the passenger leaves the customs-controlled arrival area. Additional information may be required when reserving goods for collection on return.

Q: What payment methods are accepted?

A: Products are generally priced in renminbi. Accepted payment methods may include cash, major bank cards, and mobile payment services, but availability may vary by outlet. Passengers are advised to confirm with the store before making a purchase.

Q: Are there limits on the value or quantity of duty-free goods I can purchase?

A: Rules differ between departure and arrival purchases.

Purchases made at departure duty-free stores are subject to the store's sales rules, aviation security and baggage requirements, and the customs rules of the passenger's destination and any transit point. Certain products, including tobacco and alcoholic beverages, may be subject to quantity restrictions.

Purchases made at an arrival duty-free store, including goods reserved before departure and collected on return, are subject to China's customs rules on inbound passengers' baggage and duty-free allowances.

For resident passengers arriving from places other than Hong Kong and Macao, goods purchased at an arrival duty-free store, together with eligible personal-use items acquired overseas, generally qualify for duty-free clearance within a combined value of 8,000 yuan.

For resident passengers aged 18 or above arriving from Hong Kong or Macao, the corresponding combined allowance is generally 15,000 yuan.

Different rules may apply depending on the passenger's residency status, point of departure, travel frequency, and the type and quantity of goods.

Updated Aug 25, 2026

Source: Shanghai Customs