China Tax on Overseas Purchases Set to Kick In

Moreover, such goods sent directly to consumers will now be treated as imports and will be subject to tariffs and value-added and consumption taxes, whose rates vary depending on the type and value of goods. The ministry said the changes, which become effective April 8, are intended to put foreign and domestic products on an equal footing.

Industry analysts said the move seems designed to give a boost to "made-in-China" products and could dent a small, but growing, market for foreign goods sold by Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., JD.com Inc. and other e-commerce players.