Bank of China's Shanghai branch has launched a series of innovations in departure tax refund services this year, building on a decade of experience as a leading tax refund agency.

The new measures include the introduction of the country's first "refund-upon-purchase" credit card service, the opening of Shanghai's first in-bank tax refund counter, and collaboration with Shanghai Customs on a "packaging and coding" pilot program that streamlines refund verification.

Since early 2025, the branch has provided tax refund services to more than 70,000 overseas visitors from over 170 countries and regions, supporting Shanghai's ambition to become the first stop for inbound tourism in China.

Launch of the refund-upon-purchase credit card service

In a major innovation, Bank of China's Shanghai branch recently introduced the nation's first refund-upon-purchase multi-card electronic refund service, allowing visitors to receive their tax refunds instantly via credit card. The integrated POS terminals support major international card networks, including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, UnionPay, and Diners Club.

By deploying these dedicated POS terminals at tax refund counters and participating stores, the branch has reduced transaction times and accelerated fund transfers, allowing international visitors to experience what the bank calls "Shanghai speed".

The branch has also integrated tax refund and cross-border financial services into a seamless, one-stop experience. After completing their refund, visitors can conveniently exchange foreign currency or receive complimentary "cash packs" of small-denomination renminbi for daily use in dining, transportation, and sightseeing.

Cross-regional tax refund recognition

At the 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services, Bank of China announced a cross-regional recognition mechanism for its refund-upon-purchase service, enabling visitors to complete refund procedures in one city and depart through another.

The bank currently handles departure tax refund services in 16 provinces and cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Sichuan, representing nearly half of all regions in China offering such services.

Building on the national head office's intercity recognition system, the Shanghai branch aims to leverage its strong local presence to further expand the convenience of tax refund services and unlock greater consumption potential.

Packaging and coding pilot program

At Terminal 2 of Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the branch operates a 24/7 departure tax refund counter offering both staffed and self-service options. The site is also equipped with mailboxes for the refund-upon-purchase service, a queue management system with ticket dispensers, and other visitor-friendly facilities to enhance the departure experience.

In collaboration with Shanghai Customs, the branch has recently launched a packaging and coding pilot program designed to improve verification efficiency. Under this system, participating stores provide visitors with sealed bags for tax refund goods. Customs officers can verify the integrity of the sealed packages simply by scanning a QR code, replacing the traditional item-by-item inspection process. The new model enables "one-scan clearance", with verification completed in as little as 10 seconds.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce