China is enhancing its efforts to attract international travelers by expanding its 144-hour visa-free transit policy to 37 ports of entry. The National Immigration Administration has announced the addition of three new ports: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, and Mohan Railway Port of Entry.
This policy allows eligible foreign nationals to transit through designated areas in China for up to six days without a visa, providing a significant boost to inbound tourism. The expansion reflects China’s commitment to reopening and promoting cross-border travel in the wake of global travel restrictions.
Travel industry experts anticipate that the extended visa-free access will encourage more visitors to explore the diverse cultural and natural attractions China has to offer. The move is also expected to stimulate economic growth in the newly added regions by increasing foreign exchange and tourism-related revenues.
In addition to air travel, there is a growing trend of foreign tourists opting for China’s high-speed rail network to journey between cities. According to Chinese travel platform Qunar.com, travelers from countries such as the United States, South Korea, Russia, Vietnam, and Malaysia are increasingly booking high-speed rail tickets. This shift indicates a desire among international visitors to experience China’s advancements in railway technology and to see the countryside up close.
The combination of visa-free policies and an extensive, efficient transportation network positions China as an increasingly accessible and appealing destination for global travelers. Businesses in the tourism sector are poised to benefit from the expected influx of visitors, creating new opportunities for international engagement and cultural exchange.
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China expands 144-hour visa-free transit policy to 37 ports of entry
cgtn.com
