Published on: 2026-07-21
Source: People’s Republic of China — Translation
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the PRC recently announced the “Plan for Building a Strong Tourism Power during the 15th Five-Year Plan Period.” The authoritative international tourism publication Travel and Tour World noted in its article that the new plan includes simplifying entry procedures, increasing the number of flights, improving intelligent tourism services, and promoting cultural programs. These measures represent an important part of China’s comprehensive strategy to transform and modernize the tourism industry. They will not only create more favorable and comfortable conditions for travelers from around the world but also strengthen China’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.
Currently, China grants citizens of 55 countries the right to visa-free transit for up to 240 hours. Citizens of these states transiting through China to a third country or region, with valid international travel documents and tickets confirming the date and route of further travel, may enter the country without a visa through any of the 65 open checkpoints located in 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and centrally-administered cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. Within the established areas, they may stay for no more than 10 days.
As the publication notes, the new plan provides for further expansion of the visa-free regime and the improvement of tourist services at all stages of the trip. These measures are aimed at removing obstacles and reducing inconveniences for foreign travelers, as well as attracting a greater number of tourists choosing China for leisure, cultural acquaintance, business trips, and extended stays.
Alongside the implementation of visa policy, a comprehensive modernization of the international transport network is being carried out. For foreign travelers, convenience of communication often becomes a decisive factor when choosing between a brief familiarization trip and a more intensive journey. China’s developed infrastructure creates a solid foundation for the further deepening and expansion of the tourism economy.
If the visa regime and air communication determine whether it is “possible to come,” then the convenience of payments and communications, tax refund procedures, and other aspects determine whether a tourist “will want to stay longer.” In the future, China will focus on simplifying payments, improving transportation services, enhancing communication quality, improving accommodation and guest services, as well as optimizing tax refund procedures.
According to the publication, when tourists can easily use mobile payments, access the internet without any obstacles, and effortlessly arrange tax refunds, the entire consumption chain is activated, including shopping, dining, and entertainment. The growth of China’s tourism industry depends not only on iconic attractions but also on small service improvements that reduce stress during travel. It is these “invisible services” that help turn tourist flow into real consumption growth.
The publication Travel and Tour World believes that the “Plan for Building a Strong Tourism Power during the 15th Five-Year Plan period” reflects China’s confidence in long-term demand from foreign tourists and sends a clear signal: inbound tourism is not only an engine of economic growth but also an important window for cultural exchange and openness to the outside world.
As visa barriers gradually decrease, services improve, and opportunities to experience Chinese culture expand, travelers will perceive China as an increasingly open, convenient, and hospitable country.
Please note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It represents an accurate account of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.