China has extended its visa-free policy to six additional countries, including Switzerland and Ireland, effective Thursday, in a bid to enhance inbound tourism and promote people-to-people exchanges.
The latest move is part of China’s ongoing efforts to ease visa requirements for citizens from various nations, particularly those in Southeast Asia. Experts view this as a testament to China’s commitment to openness and globalization, contrasting sharply with the trend of isolationism and protectionism observed in some countries, notably the United States.
Under the newly announced policy, citizens from Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg can visit China for business, tourism, transit, and other purposes for up to 15 days without obtaining a visa. This measure, previously announced, has seen preparations from airlines, travel agencies, and prospective visitors, leading to an increase in flight frequencies and bookings.
The first direct flight from the six European countries to China after the implementation of the visa-free policy arrived in Shenzhen on Thursday, originating from Brussels and operated by Hainan Airlines. The surge in flight searches from Europe to China indicates growing interest and demand.
China’s visa-free initiatives aim to facilitate tourism and business exchanges between the two sides, fostering stronger ties between China and Europe. Similar policies implemented in December 2023 and agreements on mutual visa exemption with Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand have already contributed to a significant increase in inbound travelers, particularly during the Chinese Lunar New Year holidays.
In addition to visa exemptions, China has taken steps to address issues faced by foreign visitors, including streamlining visa applications and improving payment services. Difficulty in using China’s mobile payment services due to issues with foreign bank card acceptance and identity authentication prompted authorities to enhance convenience for foreign nationals.
Last week, China’s State Council issued a notice urging banks and payment entities to improve mobile payment services for foreign visitors, while the People’s Bank of China issued a guide to payment services, offering various options, including mobile payments.
China’s visa-free policies and efforts to enhance convenience for foreign visitors are part of its broader opening-up strategy, reflecting the country’s confidence in globalization and opposition to protectionism. Amid rising xenophobia and protectionism in some countries, China’s commitment to openness serves as a beacon for global economic cooperation and mutual understanding.
As China deepens its reform and opening-up, abolishing market access restrictions and reducing barriers to foreign investment, it aims to foster an environment conducive to economic development and collaboration. This institutional openness not only benefits foreign businesses but also enhances global confidence in China’s economic trajectory.