Japan switching to post-departure tax refunds in November

What happened: Japan will switch to a post-departure consumption tax refund system for foreign visitors starting Nov. 1, after cases of tax-free goods being resold in Japan. Key numbers: Start date Nov. 1. Why it matters: The new system aims to prevent illegal acts by ensuring purchased items leave Japan through customs inspections at ports and airports. Seven busy international airports will offer procedures via a dedicated smartphone website to reduce congestion.

Japan will switch to a post-departure consumption tax refund system for foreign visitors starting Nov. 1, after cases of tax-free goods being resold in Japan.

The new system aims to prevent illegal acts by ensuring purchased items leave Japan through customs inspections at ports and airports. Seven busy international airports will offer procedures via a dedicated smartphone website to reduce congestion.