Chinese tourists are returning to international travel in significant numbers. China’s duty-free landscape has shifted from airport-based stores to in-city complexes, driven by the government’s efforts to boost domestic tourism. Despite this, airport retail can still compete by offering unique, value-added experiences and catering to high-end clientele, such as Chinese tourists who are known for luxury purchases.

Chinese travel shoppers have increased disposable income and consumption expenditure. In 2021, Chinese residents’ per-capita disposable income rose 9.1% over last year, and the national per-capita consumption expenditure rose 13.6% over last year.
Duty-free consumption is also gaining momentum, with overseas consumption flowing back to the home market. By 2025, the number of domestic tourists in China will reach an estimated 10 billion. The Chinese appetite for travel remains strong, but domestic trips will see the greatest growth.
More than 60% of business travelers will arrange concurrent personal trips in the coming years.