Japan's tax-free shopping becomes a refund system from 1 November 2026

This week's news · Checked 2026-09-06

What happened. Today, tourists show a passport at a tax-free shop and pay without the 10% consumption tax. From 1 November 2026 that changes: you pay the full price in the shop, then claim the tax back at the airport before departure. Sealed bags and the "consumables" rules are abolished.

What it means for you.

• November or December trips: keep cash or credit-card headroom to pay the 10% up front. On RM3,000 of shopping, that is RM300 you get back later.
• Airport refund counters will be busy in the first days of the new system. Arrive early.
• How the refund is paid (cash, card or otherwise) has not yet been fully announced by the JTA.

Next. I will publish a full guide to claiming the refund (which shops, which counters, how long) before 1 November, once the official details are complete.