China has added two European nations to its visa-free entry list, along with France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia.
The move aims to encourage more people to visit China for business and tourism. The trial program will allow visa-free entry for up to 15 days, in effect for one year.
However, international travel to China has not yet rebounded due to strict pandemic measures. In 2023, China recorded 35.5 million foreign entries and exits, compared to 97.7 million for all of 2019.
The government seeks foreign investment to boost the economy, but foreign tourists remain rare. Last year saw a surge in interest in China as a tourist destination among Europeans, with Shanghai remaining the most popular destination.
China is also promoting cultural and historical attractions and enhancing tourism infrastructure through technology, travel guides, and e-payment systems.
