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China Expands Visa-Free Access, Boosts Tourism Surge

1/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

China expanded its visa-free entry policy to allow citizens from more than 45 countries, including most of Europe, to visit for up to 30 days.
In 2025, foreign arrivals rose 30% to 829,000 visitors during the 2025 New Year holiday.
The Ministry of Commerce reports a surge in retail spending and tax-refund sales linked to tourism.
Travel agencies report bookings doubling, especially from visa-free regions.
Overstaying can incur fines.

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Story summary

China expanded its visa-free entry policy to allow citizens from more than 45 countries, including most of Europe, to visit for up to 30 days.
In 2025, foreign arrivals rose 30% to 829,000 visitors during the 2025 New Year holiday.
The Ministry of Commerce reports a surge in retail spending and tax-refund sales linked to tourism.
Travel agencies report bookings doubling, especially from visa-free regions.
Overstaying can incur fines.