CHINA SEES SURGE IN INBOUND TOURISM FOLLOWING VISA-FREE ENTRY

From Nurhafizah Tan

BEIJING, March 7 (Bernama) -- Driven by expanded visa-free policies and improved travel services, China’s inbound tourism surged in 2025. The country welcomed more than 150 million visitors last year, representing a 17 per cent increase from the previous year.

Minister of Culture and Tourism Sun Yeli attributed the growth to measures to promote inbound tourism such as visa-free entry for travellers from 50 countries and transit visa exemptions for visitors from 55 countries. The measures made it easier for international tourists, including from Malaysia, to visit China.

He said total spending by foreign tourists exceeded US$130 billion, with more than 30 million foreign arrivals recorded, reflecting the effectiveness of the policies.

The proliferation of mobile payment has made transactions more convenient and has become part of the visitor experience, he added.

“For countries with more tourists such as Kazakhstan and Malaysia, most visitors are now using mobile payment,” he said at a press conference during the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress held here on Saturday.

Sun noted that China has also expanded point-of-sale (POS) terminals and currency exchange facilities to facilitate foreign spending.

He also highlighted departure tax refund schemes aimed at making shopping more attractive for international visitors, particularly for electronics, cultural goods, and creative products.

Sun said foreign visitors were increasingly seeking authentic experiences, including riding high-speed trains, watching drone shows, enjoying traditional Chinese massages, wearing Hanfu, and tasting local cuisine such as hotpot. 

"Many tourists are also embracing local culture, with some greeting residents with ‘ni hao’, reflecting their interest in experiencing everyday Chinese life,” he said. 

Sun said the ministry will continue strengthening the country’s tourism brand by promoting China’s scenic landscapes, culture, history, and lifestyle, while further improving visa processing, border control, transport, accommodation, dining, and sightseeing services.

Sun emphasised that China remains committed to delivering high-quality services to ensure tourists have a satisfying travel experience.

-- BERNAMA