China’s recent expansion of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy to passengers from 54 countries, effective from November 17, marks a significant stride in enhancing the accessibility and appeal of Chinese culture and scenic beauty for international travelers. This policy not only simplifies travel for foreign tourists but also presents new prospects for China’s tourism industry.
The policy has been met with enthusiasm from experts and industry insiders, who view it as a step forward in improving China’s international image and revitalizing the tourism sector. The positive impact of this policy was evident at the 2023 China International Travel Mart, which concluded on Sunday, showcasing the potential for growth in both inbound and outbound tourism markets.
Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, expressed his excitement about exploring China’s diverse regions, including Macao, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai. He anticipates that the recent visa and entry reforms will encourage more international visitors to experience China’s rich cultural offerings.
The top sources of inbound travelers to mainland China in the first ten months of 2023 included South Korea, the US, Japan, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, Canada, Thailand, the UK, and Germany, according to Trip.com Group data. Customized tour specialist Meng Bo, based in Xizang Autonomous Region, noted a steady increase in foreign visitors, particularly from Asian countries.
Simultaneously, outbound tourism from China is showing signs of recovery. In the first half of the year, popular destinations such as Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam welcomed a significant number of Chinese tourists. Additionally, visa-free countries are becoming increasingly attractive to Chinese travelers.
Jia Haihong, from the Tahiti Tourism Bureau, reported that Chinese visitors to Tahiti have outnumbered those from Japan and South Korea for the first time this year. The upcoming direct flight from Tokyo to Tahiti is expected to further boost Asian tourist numbers.
Georgia, now visa-free for Chinese tourists since September, has also emerged as a favored destination. Tourism agency Caucasus Voyagers highlighted the convenience of direct flights from Urumqi in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to Georgia, making the journey just about six hours.
The 2023 China International Travel Mart, held in Kunming, Yunnan Province, brought together participants from over 70 countries and regions. This largest travel expo in Asia underscores the innovative developments and opportunities in international tourism.
China’s expanded 144-hour visa-free policy represents a pivotal development in global tourism, signaling a resurgence in travel interest and cultural exchange. As China continues to open its doors to the world, the international community eagerly anticipates the rich experiences and destinations the country has to offer.
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