FAQ / Shopping

Shopping

Credit Cards Accepted in China
Most of the internationally accepted credit cards are usable in China. These include: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diner's Club, Million Card, Federal Card and the
JCB card of Japan.

Duty-free Shops
Duty-free commodities, because of their competitive prices, have been in existence for a long time in other countries. China started to deal in such goods in March 1980. Now duty-free shops are almost everywhere-airports, ports, train stations, border posts, and tourist cities. All the chain stores are managed by the China Duty-Free Stores Co. The company has trade links with major duty-free exporters around the world.
Foreign exchange in US dollars, Japanese Yen and Hong Kong dollars are accepted at duty-free shops. There are money exchange shops in each store.
The duty-free shops in China sell famous-brand cigarettes, wines, perfumes, cosmetics, pens, watches, candies, food, daily necessities and electronics. Almost all brands can be found, and prices are cheaper than in most Western countries.

The Best Buy in China
China's markets are becoming more prosperous. The following items on your shopping list:
1) Antiques, paintings and calligraphy
2) Silk
3) Handicrafts including Cloisonné, jade, porcelain, etc.
4) Fresh water pearls
5) Chinese medicines
6) Souvenirs

Tips for Antiques Buying
Chinese antiques consist of the following six categories: Porcelain; Calligraphy and paintings; books; jewelry; curios; and furniture. The first thing to consider is whether the antiques are allowed out of China. According to Chinese laws, only antiques dated after 1797 (during the reign of Emperor Jiaqing of the Qing dynasty) can be traded and taken out of China. Antiquities to be taken out of China must bear a wax seal certified and be stamped by the National Administration for the Preservation of Cultural Relics, or secure a license for exit. The Administration has officers stationed at various department stores and antique markets to help shoppers verify their purchases.

Tips for shopping in China
China is undergoing a transition from a planned to a market economy. Commodities are priced in one of the following three ways. First, fixed prices by the state; second, regulatory prices by the state; and third, market prices. Most of the tourist merchandises fall under the third category of market prices. Therefore, you may pay visit to several shops to get the best price.
Like other countries, China is plagued by shoddy and counterfeited products, especially on street stands. Tourists are advised to make informed choices and shop accompanied by local guides. Also, big department stores and tourist stores designated by the government tend to have better credibility. Also, always ask for a receipt.