The number of departure tax refund shops in Beijing has increased to 524 since the city introduced the tax refund policy for overseas tourists in 2015, according to the Beijing Municipal Commission of Commerce.

In July 2015, Beijing launched the policy of departure tax refunds for foreign tourists who make purchases at designated shops.

Foreign visitors who spend 500 yuan or 80 U.S. dollars or more at a designated shop will be able to apply for a refund equivalent to 11 percent of the amount spent.

Beijing VAT refund shops are promoting electronic invoices to realize paperless customs declaration, examination and tax payment.

Currently, Beijing has provided tax rebate service for overseas visitors from 135 countries and regions. The sales volume of relevant goods where the refund was applied hit 250 million yuan (about 38 million U.S. dollars).