Key Chinese airports like Shanghai airport, pictured above, have begun seeing resumption of foreign tourist arrivals in large numbers
China has introduced a new package of measures aimed at further optimising the departure tax refund policy and boosting inbound spending.
According to Xinhua, the Chinese official news agency, the measures, announced by the Ministry of Commerce and five other government departments, include lowering the minimum purchase threshold for refunds, raising the cash refund ceiling, expanding the network of participating stores and widening the range of products available.
Xinhua says that the latest move to optimise the departure tax refund policy builds on a series of measures China has introduced to facilitate visas, payments, and accommodation for overseas tourists, further demonstrating the country’s commitment to opening up.
The agency adds that China’s visa policies have been continuously adjusted and optimised. Currently, the country grants unilateral visa-free entry to 38 countries and has extended the transit visa-free period to 240 hours for travellers from 54 countries.
In 2024, visa-free entries reached 20.12 million visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 112.3 pc, according to official data.
China is currently in advanced stages of discussions with India on resuming direct air links in order to boost cross-border tourism.