A complimentary "VIP appreciation tour" organized by an insurance company has reportedly turned into a high-pressure shopping trip, with some participants spending over 100,000 yuan on unverified wildlife products. This incident is not isolated, as similar cases have emerged where reluctant shoppers faced threats of being abandoned by the tour group.

Pacific Insurance recently made headlines after a branch organized a free overseas "VIP appreciation tour" for clients, which ultimately became an expensive shopping excursion. Participants returned with purchases of dubious "wildlife treasures" of uncertain authenticity.

According to reports, Wang Shaobin, who had purchased millions of yuan in insurance policies from the branch, was invited as a premium client to join a complimentary tour to Laos. The group consisted of nearly 30 middle-aged and elderly participants, each holding substantial insurance policies.

Wang recalled that the trip took an unexpected turn on the third day. Initially, the local guide emphasized Laos' low industrialization and absence of counterfeit products. Subsequently, the group was led to purchase "health products," with claims that powdered rhinoceros horn benefits eyesight and cardiovascular health, and helps reduce children's fever.

The shopping venue displayed prominent signs suggesting official cooperation, misleading participants into believing it was a government-affiliated establishment. The guide allegedly stated the store belonged to the "Ministry of Natural Resources."

After aggressive sales tactics, nearly all tour members made purchases. Wang spent a six-figure amount on two pieces of rhinoceros horn and half a bear gallbladder.

Post-tour, Wang grew suspicious and began comparing the items with online references, noticing discrepancies in color compared to genuine products. Efforts to seek verification from Hangzhou appraisal institutions were unsuccessful, as they declined personal requests.

Through communication with local market regulators, insurance companies, and agents, the travel agency eventually facilitated refunds from the overseas store.

Investigations revealed a pattern of premium clients being targeted through low-cost tours to Laos under the guise of VIP appreciation. Participants were directed to shops masquerading as official entities, where questionable wildlife products were sold.

Many tourists face dilemmas upon return: pursuing action risks self-incrimination for purchasing endangered species products, while inaction means bearing significant financial losses.

The involved insurance company has initiated an investigation into the matter.

Similar incidents have been frequently reported. In 2025, a Hexie Health insurance agent invited VIP clients on a Vietnam tour marketed as customer appreciation. After initial leisure activities, participants were pressured into buying jewelry worth tens of thousands of yuan.

Hexie Health's Zhejiang branch clarified that the agent operated under a proxy contract without company oversight, denying awareness of the activity.

Legal experts advise retaining evidence such as contracts, payment records, and promotional materials. Victims can report false advertising through official channels or file claims against domestic tour organizers for fraudulent practices, seeking refunds and compensation.