China has unveiled a series of traveler-friendly measures to strengthen its position as a top global destination, including extended visa-free transit stays and instant tax refunds for international visitors. The policies contributed to a 37% year-on-year surge in inbound tourism during the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Streamlining the Journey
International travelers can now enjoy 144-hour visa-free transit periods in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai – up from 72 hours in 2023. A new digital tax refund system allows instant reimbursement at participating retailers through mobile payment platforms, eliminating paper forms and long queues.
Economic Ripple Effects
Liu Baocheng of the University of International Business and Economics notes: "These policies create a virtuous cycle – easier access increases spending, which incentivizes businesses to improve services." Early data shows international visitors spent $2.8 billion during the Dragon Boat Festival week, with luxury goods and cultural experiences seeing strongest demand.
Cultural Bridges
Harvey Dzodin from the Center for China and Globalization observes: "The instant refund system does more than boost sales. It gives visitors tangible appreciation for China's technological capabilities and hospitality infrastructure." Tourism authorities report increased bookings for heritage sites along the Yangtze River Delta following the policy changes.
With the 2026 Asian Games approaching, analysts predict these measures will position China as both a cultural destination and a model for tourism-driven economic growth.
