Consumer Protection for Foreigners in China

Bought a defective product? Received poor service? As a foreigner in China, you have the same consumer protection rights as Chinese citizens. Here's how to exercise them.

Your Basic Consumer Rights

Under China's Consumer Protection Law:

• Right to safety: Products must be safe for use
• Right to information: Accurate product information
• Right to choose: Free selection without coercion
• Right to fair dealing: Honest transactions
• Right to compensation: Remedies for defective goods/services
• Right to privacy: Personal information protection

Return and Refund Rights

7-Day No-Reason Return

For online purchases:

• Return within 7 days without giving a reason
• Product must be unused and in original condition
• Some exceptions apply (perishables, custom items, digital products)
• Seller pays return shipping for defective items

Defective Products

Your options:

• Repair
• Replacement
• Refund
• Price reduction

How to File Complaints

1. Negotiate with Seller

First step - try to resolve directly:

• Contact customer service
• Keep records of all communications
• Set a reasonable deadline for response

2. Platform Dispute Resolution

For online purchases (Taobao, JD, etc.):

• Use platform's dispute resolution system
• Upload evidence (photos, chat records)
• Platform mediates between buyer and seller

3. Consumer Association

File complaint with local consumer association:

• Free mediation service
• Can pressure businesses to resolve
• Contact via 12315 hotline

4. Market Supervision Bureau

Government enforcement:

• Report via 12315 platform (online or phone)
• Can investigate and penalize businesses
• Effective for serious violations

5. Legal Action

For significant disputes:

• Small claims court for minor amounts
• Regular civil litigation
• Can claim damages plus legal costs

Common Consumer Issues

Counterfeit Products

• Very common problem in China
• Triple damages available
• Report to market supervision bureau
• Platform may also compensate

Service Disputes

• Gyms, beauty salons, training centers
• Prepaid card issues
• Business closure without refund

Online Shopping Fraud

• Non-delivery after payment
• Significantly different from description
• Use platform protection when possible

Evidence to Collect

• Purchase receipts/invoices (fapiao)
• Product photos showing defects
• Chat records with seller
• Packaging and labels
• Expert inspection reports if needed

Language Barriers

Tips for foreigners:

• 12315 platform has some English support
• Bring a Chinese-speaking friend if needed
• Written complaints can be translated
• Consider hiring a lawyer for significant disputes

Prevention Tips

• Buy from reputable sellers/platforms
• Always get official receipts (fapiao)
• Check seller ratings and reviews
• Use platform payment protection
• Be cautious with prepaid cards