Planning to head to Shenzhen for a weekend trip or take an extended holiday in Mainland China? If you’ve got digital devices and home appliances on your shopping list, you can get up to RMB2,000 (about HK$2,100) off on your purchases thanks to a subsidy that Hongkongers are now eligible for. All you need is a Home Return Permit, a China UnionPay account, and a couple of Mainland credentials.
Get 15-20% off on phones, TVs & more
The scheme, which was launched by the Mainland government, allows consumers who buy mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches priced up to RMB6,000 (about HK$6,400) to get a 15% rebate on their purchases. The discount is higher if you buy large appliances like TVs, air-conditioners, fridges, or washing machines as you can save up to 20% on your purchase, capped at RMB2,000. The subsidy will last until December 31, 2025.
How to get the discount
The initiative will only benefit Hongkongers who have a Home Return Permit — a document is issued to Chinese citizens with permanent residency in the SAR — along with a registered account on China UnionPay, a Mainland China mobile number, and a debit or credit card issued by a bank north of the border. If you meet all these criteria, follow these steps:
- Open the China UnionPay app and go to the “National Government Subsidised Zone section
- Pick a shopping district (eg., Shenzhen)
- Enter the details of your Mainland China mobile number and debit/credit card
- Go to the “Vouchers” section and select the relevant home appliance or electronic gadget
- Input your personal details (name, mobile number, Home Return Permit number, etc.)
- Selected the subsidised product, then sign and submit the electronic agreement to get the voucher
- Redeem the product at select stores within 24 hours by using the China Union app for the purchase
Image credits: maia crimew via Unsplash
