China’s recent improvements in visa and tax refund policies have significantly boosted inbound tourism, making “China Travel” a trending topic worldwide, according to government officials.
During the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, a multimedia talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, Liu Jia from the National Immigration Administration emphasized that the revised visa-free policies have simplified procedures, shortened processing times, and reduced costs for foreign travelers, facilitating easier visits to China.
Since 2023, China has implemented numerous measures to promote inbound travel, including expanding mutual visa exemptions, offering unilateral visa-free access, and extending visa-free stay durations for international visitors.
Currently, China has established comprehensive mutual visa exemption agreements with 29 countries, unilateral visa-free policies for 38 countries, and transit visa-free entry for travelers from 54 countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.
Tax refund programs have also been enhanced. International shoppers can now receive instant tax rebates at duty-free stores. Additionally, the minimum purchase amount required for refunds has been lowered, the maximum cash refund limit increased, and the range of eligible products expanded.
Shi Zeyi of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism noted that with ongoing improvements in visa, payment, and tax policies, the “China Travel” sector has shown strong recovery momentum and promising growth potential.
In 2024, China recorded 132 million inbound trips with tourism spending reaching US$94.2 billion, representing 97.2 percent and 93.5 percent of the 2019 pre-pandemic levels, respectively, Shi added.
Liu pointed out that the surge in foreign visitors has boosted consumption in hospitality, retail, and cultural services sectors, contributing to growth in service trade and attracting foreign investment.
These policy updates underscore China’s commitment to opening up further, Liu explained, and aim to deepen cultural understanding between China and the international community by dispelling stereotypes held by some countries.
“First-hand experience can help overcome misunderstandings and biases, allowing the world to see a more open, inclusive, prosperous, stable, and secure China,” Liu stated.
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