China shopping trend grows as foreign visitor numbers rise

The “China Haul” trend on international social media reflects a growing interest in shopping among foreign visitors to China, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Yang Mu, head of the ministry’s market operation and consumption promotion department, noted that consumer preferences have expanded from traditional goods like tea and silk to include technology gadgets, beauty items, wellness products, and trendy toys.

Official data shows that visa-free entries rose 24.1% year on year in the third quarter of 2026, reaching nearly 9 million. This growth is supported by government measures to facilitate shopping, including improvements to departure tax refund policies. From January to August 2026, sales under the nationwide departure tax refund scheme increased approximately 60% year on year, while the number of individuals receiving refunds rose by 300%.

To support this trend, China has expanded its tax refund infrastructure, with more than 18,000 stores nationwide—a 400% increase from the end of 2024. The ministry plans to further improve the experience by expanding high-quality product supplies, extending tax refund coverage, and enhancing payment services.