China has rolled out a suite of traveler-friendly policies designed to streamline international visits. Key among these are extended visa-free transit windows and a new instant tax refund system.
During the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival holiday, inbound tourism surged, turning historic waterfronts and cultural hubs into vibrant meeting points for global travelers. The visa-free transit program, now available in more major cities, has removed paperwork hurdles and encouraged spontaneous stopovers in emerging destinations.
The instant tax refund system has been a major draw. Liu Baocheng, dean of the Center for International Business Ethics at the University of International Business and Economics, notes that the system cuts processing time at airport counters from days to mere minutes, making shopping and sightseeing more seamless.
Harvey Dzodin, senior fellow at the Center for China and Globalization, sees broader economic benefits as well. He explains that smoother travel experiences are boosting spending in hospitality and retail sectors, while enhancing China’s appeal as a must-visit destination for young global citizens.
As positive global perceptions of China rise, these policies offer a fresh model for sustainable tourism and cultural exchange. With holiday seasons on the horizon, travelers and local businesses alike are watching closely to see how these changes shape the next wave of international visits.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
