Shanghai recorded an 80 percent year-on-year increase in tax refund sales for departing travelers, thanks to a growing influx of international tourists and improved payment and tax refund services. 

A record 9.36 million international tourists came to the city in 2025, a 39.58 percent increase from the previous year, reinforcing Shanghai's position as China's leading gateway for inbound travel.

To enhance the visitor experience, Shanghai has improved cross-border payment services. By the end of 2025, more than 67,000 merchants and 97,000 terminals across the city accepted foreign bank cards. Foreign cards can now be linked with local apps to make transactions smoother for overseas guests.

Easy Go, an all-in-one digital platform that integrates dining, transportation, tourism, and shopping services, offers a seamless service experience for global travelers.

Shanghai has also upgraded its tax refund services for inbound tourists.

With more than 1,800 tax-free shops and 27 instant refund service points citywide, the city now accounts for nearly half of China's total departure refund sales.

Major commercial districts have played a significant role in attracting international consumption. For example, the newly opened Louis Vuitton's flagship store, The Louis at HKRI Taikoo Hui, became a popular destination for global shoppers. At the mall, instant tax refund transactions surged by nearly 700 percent in the second half of 2025.

Source: Xinmin Evening News