Global Blue Supports Japan’s Tax Free Shopping Ecosystem as a New Refund-Based Framework Goes Live
Japan’s new Tax Free Shopping system came into effect on November 1, 2026, replacing the previous “Consumption Tax-off” model with a “Consumption Tax-on” model. Eligible international shoppers now pay consumption tax at the point of purchase and receive a refund after Customs approval at departure.
To operate under this new model, a Fund Transfer License is required, which Global Blue TFS Japan Co., Ltd. obtained the license on October 14, 2026. It enables Global Blue to combine its Tax Free Shopping technology with regulated funds transfer capabilities, including the processing of refunds exceeding JPY 1 million in accordance with Japanese regulations. This supports an integrated solution for retailers, covering the full process from in-store Tax Free transactions through to refund execution.
Preparing Japanese Retailers for the New System
Japan’s new refund-based model requires retailers to adapt how they process Tax Free Shopping transactions. Ahead of the reform, Global Blue supported over 2,000 retailers with system implementation, operational setup and staff training, helping prepare over 10,000 stores for the transition.
To do so, Global Blue offers a range of in-store issuing solutions to meet the needs of retailers of different sizes and transaction volumes, with both standalone and integrated options.
Fast data capture capabilities help streamline transaction processing and support retailers as they adapt to the new refund-based framework.
Supporting Travelers Throughout the Refund Journey
As Japan transitions to its new Tax Free Shopping system, Global Blue also supports international travelers through its digital solutions, Mobile Customer Care (MCC) and the Global Blue app. These provide real-time visibility into refund status, helping travelers track their refunds and understand where they stand in the new process.
Global Blue will also offer an advanced cash refund service at close to 15 downtown refund points across Japan. Located in popular shopping and tourism districts, these locations will give international travelers convenient access to cash refunds while shopping and exploring the country.
Extending the Refund Journey to Airports
The new framework also changes the role of airports in the Tax Free Shopping journey. Established by Global Blue, Cash Japan Inc. has been selected to provide airport tax refund services at six major international airports: Chubu Centrair, Fukuoka, Kansai, Kobe, Narita and New Chitose. Services have been introduced since November 1, 2026.
Cash Japan simplifies the airport refund experience by connecting multiple Tax Free Shopping operators through a single procedure, so eligible travelers do not need to handle their refunds separately with each operator. The service also offers cash refunds in Japanese yen and assistance in 12 languages.
Japan’s new Tax Free Shopping system marks an important evolution in the country’s retail landscape and an opportunity to further strengthen the shopping experience for international visitors. Drawing on our extensive experience in Tax Free Shopping, Global Blue is well positioned to support retailers as they adapt to the new framework, combining our technology, operational expertise and understanding of international shoppers to help them navigate the transition and make the most of this change.
As the new system takes effect, Global Blue will continue working with retail partners and local stakeholders as Japan transitions to its new Tax Free Shopping system.
About Global Blue
Global Blue by Shift4 is the industry leader in Tax Free Shopping solutions, simplifying the tax refund process for international travelers and driving revenue for retailers through a fully integrated commerce experience. As a business partner for the shopping journey, we seamlessly connect shoppers and brands worldwide, powering over 40 million transactions each year. For more information, please visit globalblue.com and shift4.com.
Established in Japan in 2013 through a joint venture with NTT DATA, Global Blue TFS Japan is the market leader in Japan's Tax Free Shopping industry, with services deployed across all 47 prefectures nationwide.
Leveraging more than 40 years of global expertise in Tax Free Shopping, traveler behavior, and international retail trends, Global Blue provides integrated tax free, data intelligence, and consulting solutions that benefit both merchants and travelers. The company supports over 300,000 retail stores, including department stores, luxury boutiques, and hotels, across 45 countries worldwide.
Drawing on its extensive international experience, Global Blue continues to help retailers navigate evolving Tax Free regulations while delivering innovative solutions that enhance the shopping journey for international visitors.
Global Blue is committed to driving innovation at the intersection of shopping, payments, and consumer intelligence.
For more information, visit globalblue.com/en/business.
