China’s optimized visa and tax refund insurance policies have given a lift to inbound tourism, fueling the trending of “China Journey” globally, officers stated.
Talking on the newest episode of China Financial Roundtable, an all-media discuss present hosted by Xinhua Information Company, Liu Jia, an official with the Nationwide Immigration Administration, highlighted that the up to date visa-free insurance policies have waived procedures and lowered time and monetary burdens for overseas vacationers, making it simpler to go to China.
China has launched a slew of insurance policies to facilitate inbound journey since 2023. Main steps taken included increasing mutual visa exemptions and unilateral visa-free entry, and increasing visa-free entry keep for worldwide guests.
As of now, China has established complete mutual visa exemptions with 29 international locations, applied unilateral visa-free insurance policies for 38 international locations, and transit visa-free insurance policies for 54 international locations together with Britain, the USA and Canada.
Tax refund schemes for worldwide vacationers have been optimized as nicely. Whereas permitting overseas buyers to immediately declare tax rebates at tax-free shops, China has additionally lowered the minimal buy threshold for refunds, raised the money refund ceiling and widened the vary of merchandise accessible.
Talking on the roundtable, Shi Zeyi, an official with the Ministry of Tradition and Tourism, stated that with steady enhancements in visa, cost and tax insurance policies, “China Journey” has demonstrated sturdy restoration momentum and broad progress prospects.
Final yr, China recorded 132 million inbound journeys, with complete tourism spending reaching 94.2 billion U.S. {dollars}, recovering to 97.2 % and 93.5 % of 2019 ranges, respectively, in keeping with Shi.
Liu famous that the inflow of overseas guests has spurred consumption throughout sectors resembling hospitality, retail and cultural providers, contributing to the expansion of the service commerce and attracting overseas funding.
These up to date insurance policies are proof of China’s dedication to opening up, Liu stated, including that they may assist foster deeper cultural understanding between China and the worldwide group, breaking stereotypes held by some international locations.
“First-hand expertise might help dispel misunderstandings and biases, enabling the world to see, really feel and acknowledge an open, inclusive, affluent, secure and protected China,” Liu stated.
