Intl. visitors flock to Huaqiangbei for gadgets

The phrase "Go to China with an empty suitcase!" has recently become a popular hashtag on overseas social media. Huaqiangbei, a subdistrict in Shenzhen's Futian District, is home to one of the world's largest electronics markets.

A screenshot from a recent China Central Television report, which states that over 7,000 international tourists visit Huaqiangbei daily. Photos from CCTV news

Packed with small shops selling all kinds of electronic gadgets, Huaqiangbei is one of the top destinations for international travelers, who often bring empty suitcases with them. 

According to a recent report by China Central Television (CCTV), more than 7,000 international tourists visit Huaqiangbei every day, and they usually purchase a Chinese-made AI translator before beginning their shopping spree.

Australian tourists Simon and Mary were seen in the area dragging large bags filled with mobile phone accessories, fans, headphones, beauty devices, and other electronic products. They told CCTV reporters that Huaqiangbei offers a complete range of products, tax refunds, and the opportunity to bargain. They arrived with empty suitcases and left with them full.

Two international visitors speak with a CCTV reporter, citing drones as their sought-after items from Huaqiangbei.

A salesperson at a drone store said it provides one-stop services for overseas buyers, who can select products on the upper floors and have them shipped from the lower floors.

The store also offers currency exchange and international logistics services. Customers can receive immediate tax refunds on their purchases, which effectively accounts to a 10% discount. The store sells 50 drones per week, mostly to foreign nationals.

Huaqiangbei, home to 110,000 business entities, is a microcosm of China’s relentless drive to innovate. Every week, more than a dozen new products are launched here, spanning the entire spectrum of electronics — from tiny resistors and capacitors to cutting-edge smartphones, drones, and 3D printers.

It’s a labyrinthine network of multi-story mega-malls, each packed with thousands of tiny stalls brimming with components, gadgets, and finished products.

International travelers claim tax refunds at a customs service counter in Shenzhen International Airport.

With the number of international buyers increasing, the Huaqiangbei Subdistrict Office set up a team of international volunteers last December. They provide volunteer services for customers and merchants during their spare time, helping them overcome language barriers. 

According to data from Shenzhen Customs, as of May 25, overseas tourists have purchased tax-refundable goods worth more than 67.7 million yuan (US$9 million), with a total tax refund amount of nearly 6.1 million yuan.

Click HERE for tax refund guidelines.