Travelers to Hainan will soon have access to more duty-free products, including pet supplies, mini-drones, and portable musical instruments, under a policy update effective November 1.
The Ministry of Finance, General Administration of Customs, and State Taxation Administration announced the expansion, increasing the number of duty-free categories from the current list to 47.
New additions include pet supplies and portable musical instruments. The “home air purifiers and parts” category is now redefined as “small household appliances,” covering items like robotic vacuum cleaners. Wearable devices and other electronics are grouped under “electronic consumer products,” adding digital cameras, accessories, and mini-drones. Computer mice and keyboards are now classified as “digital accessories” under the tablet computer category.
Duty-free shops can also sell certain made-in-China goods—such as silk scarves, apparel, ceramics, coffee, and tea—as export sales eligible for VAT and consumption tax rebates.
Hainan residents (including foreigners with residence permits) who leave the island at least once a year will enjoy unlimited duty-free purchases for same-day collection for the rest of that year. The minimum shopping age rises from 16 to 18, but the annual quota of 100,000 yuan (about $13,800) stays unchanged.
The changes aim to strengthen Hainan’s role as an international shopping hub.