China has recorded a significant increase in cross-border travel during the recent May Day holiday, driven largely by a rise in international arrivals and expanding visa-free entry policies.
Official figures showed that nearly 11.3 million cross-border trips were made during the holiday period, reflecting growing tourism and business activities in the country.
Trips by foreign nationals travelling in and out of China rose to about 1.26 million, representing a 12.5 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
“Among inbound visitors, about 436,000 entered China under the country’s visa-free arrangements, marking a 14.7 per cent rise year-on-year,” Officials said.
The increase follows China’s continued expansion of visa-free policies aimed at ‘boosting tourism, international exchanges, and economic activities.’
Chinese authorities have also introduced measures to improve travellers’ experience, including longer visa-free stay periods, wider travel access, and instant tax refund services for departing visitors.
Analysts say “the development highlights China’s ongoing efforts to strengthen global connectivity and revive international travel following years of pandemic-related restrictions.”
