Guangzhou, the capital city of South China's Guangdong province, is set to open its first downtown duty-free store in Tianhe district on Aug 26, allowing outbound international travelers to purchase duty-free goods directly in the city center before their departure.

Located on the first floor of Guangzhou Friendship Store at the Guangzhou International Finance Center in the heart of the CBD, this new establishment aims to enhance the city's status as an international consumption hub, offering high-quality duty-free shopping experiences for both residents and tourists.

The downtown duty-free store, approved by the State Council, is designated for selling duty-free goods to travelers about to depart the country. Imported goods at the store are exempt from customs duties, import VAT, and consumption tax, while domestic goods are treated as exports, eligible for VAT and consumption tax rebates.

Guangzhou Friendship Store. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]

Unlike traditional duty-free shops at airports, this urban duty-free store brings tax-free shopping directly to the city center.

Any traveler scheduled to depart from China within 60 days via international flights or international cruise ships is eligible (including Chinese citizens) to shop at downtown duty-free stores.

Shoppers place orders in-store and pick up their purchases at designated counters in the restricted port departure zone, such as those at the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. This creates a seamless shopping experience from pre-departure to post-departure.

This store is among the first eight downtown duty-free stores in China. It features a diverse range of products, including international brands, traditional Chinese brands, and local specialties, focusing on beauty, watches, jewelry, and premium liquors, alongside tech gadgets and trendy local designs.

On the opening day, shoppers can enjoy discounted prices on duty-free items and receive complimentary experiences like Michelin dining, hotel stays, and city tours with select purchases.