Digital Wallet Supports Revised Tax-Free Shopping for Inbound Tourists

Digital Wallet Corporation (DWC), owner and operator of Smiles Mobile Remittance, Japan’s most popular mobile international money transfer provider, has launched “TAX REFUND JAPAN,” a new service designed to support the revised tax-free shopping system for inbound tourists. This first-of-its-kind service from a licensed funds transfer provider in Japan allows international visitors to receive their consumption tax refunds via overseas remittance.

“TAX REFUND JAPAN” facilitates the overseas remittance of consumption tax refunds to international visitors after completing the tax-free shopping procedure. Fully compliant with all relevant laws, regulations and licensing requirements, the service supports diverse refund methods, including credit card, mobile wallet, bank transfer and cash pickup at designated counters. It is also designed to align with the refund method of the new inbound tourist tax-free system, which will start in November 2026.

This service offers enhanced convenience for both international tourists and retailers and ensures secure and reliable tax-free transactions. Digital Wallet follows all domestic regulations governing funds transfer, such as the Payment Services Act and the Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds, as well as global anti-money laundering and compliance standards.

“TAX REFUND JAPAN” is designed to provide overseas remittance capabilities for tax refund administrators offering tax-free systems to retailers and for retail businesses and system vendors integrating tax-free services into their POS systems. This service enables businesses to provide international tourists with diverse refund options: credit card, mobile wallet and bank transfer. Additionally, it helps businesses manage the risks and customer support associated with overseas remittances, simplifying their operations.

“The consumption tax exemption system is crucial for stimulating economic activity through inbound tourism. However, the system has been exploited by resellers, leading to significant losses in tax revenue,” said DWC CEO and Founder Eiji Miyakawa.

DWC is committed to improving the shopping experience for international tourists and providing efficient solutions for retailers. Through “TAX REFUND JAPAN,” the company aims to contribute to the growth of inbound tourism in Japan and ensure the proper implementation of the tax-free system.