In recent months, \"China Travel\" has become the talk of the town as international tourists are flocking to the country. This surge is largely attributed to the Chinese government's introduction of various visa-free policies earlier this year. Whether through unilateral or mutual visa exemption schemes, or the 144-hour visa-free transit facility, these initiatives have proven successful.
From January to July 2024, the number of international visitors to China surged by nearly 130% compared to the same period last year, reaching over 17 million. This significant increase begs the question: what are the economic implications, and how does it affect China's global image?
In this edition of The Hub, correspondent Wang Guan visits Beijing Capital International Airport to speak with officers from the Beijing General Station of Immigration Inspection. They shed light on the operational aspects of the new visa policies and their impact on facilitating smoother entries for international visitors. Additionally, Wang Guan engages with foreign tourists to gather their experiences regarding the immigration process and the benefits they've enjoyed from the 144-hour visa-free transit policy.
The influx of tourists is not only boosting China's tourism sector but also enhancing diplomatic and cultural exchanges, thereby strengthening its position on the global stage. With continuous efforts to streamline travel processes, China appears poised to sustain this upward trend in international tourism.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
