Integrity like a Samurai. TAIMATSU Inc. Launches 'SAMURAI TAX,' a Duty-Free System Compatible with the New Refund Method

TAIMATSU Inc. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Wang Weihan), a company promoting the charm of traditional Japanese crafts through brands like 'MUSASHI JAPAN,' has launched 'SAMURAI TAX,' a new service to support tax-free procedures for retailers and non-residents. Anticipating the significant tax-free system revision scheduled for November 2026 (the shift to the refund method), the company provides a highly convenient tax-free solution for both businesses and visitors to Japan. ### Background of the Business 1. Expansion of the Inbound Market and Increasing Demand for Duty-Free The number of foreign tourists visiting Japan continues to grow annually, reaching a record high of approximately 42.68 million in 2025 (according to JNTO statistics). Spending per person and the number of duty-free shops are also on an upward trend, both reaching record-high levels. 2. Major Turning Point in the Tax-Free System From November 1, 2026, the tax-free system will shift from the traditional 'Tax Exemption at Point of Purchase' to the 'Refund Method.' Under this new system, travelers pay the tax-inclusive price at the time of purchase and receive a consumption tax refund after customs approval upon departure. With this change, retailers will be required to introduce systems capable of handling refund procedures. 3. A Service Born from the Field TAIMATSU Inc. has been operating the Japanese knife business 'MUSASHI JAPAN' since 2020, with over 90% of its customers being international visitors. Since opening offline stores in 2023 and operating as a duty-free shop, the company has accumulated expertise in application flows, onsite operations, and institutional challenges at a practical level. Based on these experiences, 'SAMURAI TAX' was developed as a 'truly necessary duty-free service for the field.' ### Features of 'SAMURAI TAX' 1. Easy Implementation via Web-Based Interface No need to install a dedicated application. The service can be used on any device with a browser environment. (Note: Separate registration as a duty-free shop is required if not already completed.) 2. Smooth Application in as Little as 1 Minute The system supports passport scanning and reading QR codes from Visit Japan Web. Furthermore, by linking with Shopify POS, order information can be automatically retrieved, significantly reducing the operational burden on-site. (Note: Installation of a dedicated application on Shopify POS is required.) 3. Zero Initial and Monthly Fees There are no initial or monthly costs. The business model takes a fee from the refund amount, allowing retailers to implement the system without cost burden. (Note: A device capable of accessing a web browser is required.) 4. Reliable Refund System Compatible with the Refund Method In partnership with 'TAX REFUND JAPAN' by Digital Wallet Corporation, one of Japan's largest overseas remittance funds transfer service providers, the system ensures safe and smooth refunds. ### Future Outlook Through 'SAMURAI TAX,' TAIMATSU Inc. aims to establish a standard of trust and convenience in the Japanese duty-free market. Moving forward, the company will expand implementation to duty-free businesses nationwide while strengthening service functions to be more convenient and secure, contributing to the improvement of the shopping experience for visitors to Japan. ### About TAIMATSU Inc. Established: November 2023 CEO: Wang Weihan Location: 22F Harumi Island Triton Square Office Tower X, 1-8-10 Harumi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo URL: https://www.tai-matsu.jp/ E-mail: help@tai-matsu.jp TAIMATSU Inc. is a company that redefines Japanese traditional crafts. Members with diverse backgrounds from all over the world pursue the possibilities of traditional crafts from innovative perspectives. From Japanese knives and sake to experience facilities where the Samurai spirit lives on, the services and products we create maximize the charm of tradition and share it globally. MUSASHI JAPAN: https://www.musashihamono.com/ FUJI JAPAN: https://fujijapan.jp/ YOKAI JAPAN: https://yokaijapan.jp/