Chinese tourists are set to enjoy expanded duty-free shopping benefits in Hong Kong, as Beijing plans a substantial increase in the current purchasing limit. The new adjustment is expected to elevate the duty-free quota up to six times its current amount.
The limit was raised from HK$5,400 to HK$16,100 if visitors buy goods at duty-free stores at border crossings, or HK$12,900 for other shopping. Moreover, the new duty-free shopping allowance for mainland Chinese tourists visiting Hong Kong and Macau will begin to be implemented on July 1 at six border crossings.
The Hong Kong government estimated the measure would bring about a significant increase in tourist spending in the city by at least HK$8.8 billion every year. The increased consumption that would be generated by this measure would then add between HK$2.7 billion and HK$5.4 billion to the city’s economy.
