Story perspectives

Chinese Tourist Surge in Asia, Duty-Free Sales Decline

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Chinese tourist numbers are rebounding in Asia thanks to visa-free policies and a stronger yuan.
Duty-free spending has not recovered, and South Korea previously relied on Chinese visitors for about 70% of duty-free sales.
From January to November 2025, about 5 million Chinese tourists visited South Korea, reaching 92.3% of 2019 levels, while duty-free sales fell 12% to $80.6 billion, and retailers such as Shilla and Shinsegae reduced airport concessions.

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Story summary

Chinese tourist numbers are rebounding in Asia thanks to visa-free policies and a stronger yuan.
Duty-free spending has not recovered, and South Korea previously relied on Chinese visitors for about 70% of duty-free sales.
From January to November 2025, about 5 million Chinese tourists visited South Korea, reaching 92.3% of 2019 levels, while duty-free sales fell 12% to $80.6 billion, and retailers such as Shilla and Shinsegae reduced airport concessions.