NE China province to launch overseas tourists tax refund

HARBIN - Heilongjiang will begin to issue tax rebates for overseas visitors on July 1, to boost inbound tourism to the northeastern province.

According to Heilongjiang Provincial Office of the State Administration of Taxation, overseas tourists visiting the cities of Harbin, Heihe and Suifenhe will enjoy VAT refunds on purchases from specific shops.

Foreign tourists and those from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan who stay on the Chinese mainland for fewer than 183 days can claim up to 11 percent back on goods bought at designated department stores.

The minimum purchase for the rebate is 500 yuan ($75.6) at one store in one day. The refund is valid when the purchase is made within 90 days before departure. The rebate covers over 20 kinds of commodities such as garments, cosmetics and home appliances.

A pilot tax refund program began on the southern island province of Hainan on Jan 1, 2011. Beijing and Shanghai rolled out the policy in July 2015. It has since been expanded to more destinations nationwide.

Heilongjiang is known for its winter scenery and cool summers. The province recorded 130 million tourists in 2015.