Beginning today, consumers will be able to return goods purchased at Shanghai's two airports without the normal hassles associated with getting a refund at most Chinese stores, thanks to an agreement signed on Saturday at Pudong International Airport.

The agreement was signed by 17 enterprises with sales counters in Hongqiao and Pudong airports in order to improve the city's image among travelers.

The companies agreed to give consumers a full refund without any need for an explanation of why merchandise is unsatisfactory as long as the goods still have their original value and the request for a refund is made within three days of purchase.

"The promise can help create a good environment for consumers in the city since airports are windows through which travelers can learn about a country," said Zhang Wenwei, director of Shanghai Industrial and Commercial Administrative Bureau.

The concept of hassle-free refunds is still quite new in China though it is popular in foreign countries. Consumers trying to return goods to department stores in the city are often cross-examined about why they want a refund. If their explanations are unsatisfactory, stores won't give them their money back.

While the old refund system at the airports didn't create a significant number of problems, officials said the airports are a good place to carry out the new policy because many travelers are foreigners used to liberal refund policies in their home countries.

The policy is good for businesses as well as consumers, said Gu Feng, of Shanghai Huaihai Commerce (Group) Co Ltd

"Consumers not only need high-quality commodities but also good service," Haihai Commerce's Gu said, adding that the policy will help companies create a better image.

(Eastday.com.cn 09/24/2001)