Since November 2024, China has expanded its visa-free policy to include nine additional countries. In December of the same year, it also extended the visa-free transit stay from 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours and increased to 60 the number of designated entry and exit ports for travelers using this policy. By the end of 2024, China had established mutual visa exemptions with 25 countries and implemented unilateral visa-free policies for 38 countries.
These efforts have significantly boosted tourist arrivals. During the five-day Labor Day holiday this year, there were approximately 10.9 million inbound and outbound trips made by both Chinese and foreign citizens. More than 1.1 million of these were made by foreigners, marking a year-on-year increase of 43.1%. Among them, 380,000 inbound trips were made under visa-free policies—a 72.7% increase compared to the previous year.
China’s growing appeal as a tourist destination is also reflected on social media, where hashtags like “China Travel” continue to trend. This tourism boom has translated into significant growth in visitor spending. During the first three days of the Labor Day holiday, Alipay, one of China’s leading mobile payment platforms, reported that spending by international tourists surged by 180% year-on-year.
Since April 8, international travelers in China have been able to receive tax refunds directly at the point of purchase. A staff member at the DJI store in Beijing’s SKP mall noted that more and more foreign tourists are shopping there, particularly interested in drones and action cameras. As one of the first retailers in Beijing to offer both exit-based and in-store tax refund models, the number of tax refund applications at the shopping center increased by 104% in 2024 compared to 2023.
The high quality of Chinese-made products is a major reason why international tourists enjoy shopping in China. Experts suggest that introducing additional incentives, enhancing cultural and tourism offerings, and optimizing consumer services could further attract international travelers.
China’s more open visa policies and improved tax refund systems are playing a key role in boosting international tourism while encouraging the purchase of domestic goods and strengthening the country’s economy.
