China’s southern island province of Hainan has recorded strong growth in offshore duty-free shopping over the past 15 years, with total sales reaching 286.4 billion yuan, according to local customs authorities.
The sales volume includes around 347 million items since the policy was introduced in April 2011 to boost tourism and consumer spending.
Over the years, the policy has been revised and improved several times to expand its scope and attract more shoppers.
At present, Hainan has 12 offshore duty-free stores operating across the island, reflecting the steady expansion of the programme.