What is the minimum purchase for tax free shopping in China?

You must spend at least ¥500 (RMB) at a single store on the same day.

What is the VAT rate in China?

China's standard VAT rate is 13%. A reduced rate of 9% applies to agricultural products and utilities.

How do I claim my VAT refund in China?

Get a Tax Free form at the store, validate it at customs before departure, and collect your refund at a Global Blue office at the airport.

Which cities in China offer tax free shopping?

Tax free shopping is available in major cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Guangzhou. The program is expanding to more cities each year.

What is the actual refund rate in China?

For 13% VAT goods, the refund is 11% of the invoice amount. For 9% VAT goods, the refund is 8%. Processing fees vary by city and are deducted from these amounts.

Can I combine purchases from different stores in China?

No. Each tax free form must be from a single store on the same day. You cannot combine receipts from different retailers to reach the ¥500 minimum.

Last updated: 28.03.2026

China Tax Free Shopping Calculator 2026

Calculate your China VAT (VAT) refund instantly. China has a 13% standard VAT rate. Use our free calculator to see your estimated refund on tourist purchases.

This calculator provides estimates based on standard China VAT rates. Actual refund amounts depend on the tax-free operator and their processing fees. Always confirm details at the store.

Calculate Your China Tax RefundUpdates instantly

Enter your purchase amount in China. Standard VAT rate: 13%. Minimum spend: ¥500.00.

Example: ¥1,500.00 purchase in China

¥138.06estimated refund (9.2% back)

VAT included: ¥172.57After processing fee: −¥34.51

Enter your actual purchase amount above for a precise calculation.

VAT rates in China

Standard rate (general goods)13%

Agricultural, Utilities9%

Not eligible for tax refund

×Services (hotels, restaurants, transport, tours)
×Digital goods and downloads
×Goods consumed in-country (food eaten on-site)
×Motor vehicles and boats
×Goods for commercial or business use
×Goods shipped directly by the retailer (already VAT-free)

Compare tax free refunds across 46 countries→

Frequently asked questions

Compare with other countries

Japan

South Korea

Singapore

Source: http://www.chinatax.gov.cn/

This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission when you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are based on editorial judgment.