The northern gate of the Palace Museum is crammed with tourists in Beijing, Oct. 2, 2014. Beijing will introduce a tax refund policy this year to boost the spending capacity of international tourists in the capital, Beijing News reports on Tuesday. (Photo/Xinhua)
(ECNS) -- Beijing will introduce a tax refund policy this year to boost the spending capacity of international tourists in the capital, Beijing News reports on Tuesday.
Cheng Hong, Beijing's vice mayor, said the city would actively support the development of inbound tourism in accordance with the financial policies of the central government.
The statement was made during the signing of an agreement between Beijing Tourism Industry Association, Beijing Overseas Exchange Association and twenty representatives of Chinese cuisine associations from 15 countries.
The agreement aims to further promote Beijing's tourism resources in the global market.
Cheng also said overseas Chinese play an important role in promoting the development of the capital's tourism industry and attracting inbound visitors.
According to guidelines from the Ministry of Finance, foreign visitors who spend 500 yuan ($80) or more at a designated shop on the same day could apply for a refund equivalent to 11 percent of the amount spent.
The goods must not be used before applying for the refund, and the application should be submitted within 90 days of purchase.
