UK losing out to EU as shopping destination

Britain needs to reinstate tax refund as Chinese tourists turning away: Experts

Britain is losing its competitive edge as a prime shopping destination for Chinese tourists because of its removal of the tourist tax refund policy, which previously incentivized Chinese visitors to shop there.

The downward trend was evident during China's recent Golden Week holiday, as more Chinese tourists traveling to Europe chose to explore shopping destinations, including France, Italy and Spain, instead of the UK.

The reason, experts said, is that Chinese tourists want more favorable pricing and the opportunity to get tax refunds in other European countries.