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Expansion of the visa-free regime stimulates “reverse cross-border shopping”: “Chinese design” becomes a new trend in inbound tourism

Expansion of the visa-free regime stimulates “reverse cross-border shopping”: “Chinese design” becomes a new trend in inbound tourism

Published on: 2026-07-28

Source: People’s Republic of China — Translation

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Thanks to the continuous expansion of the number of countries with which China has established mutual visa-free regimes, in the first half of 2026 the number of foreign tourists entering Shanghai increased by 22% compared to the same period last year. Data on foreign consumers’ spending shows a new trend: travelers from abroad no longer limit themselves to buying traditional goods such as tea or silk, but following recommendations on social networks, actively purchase Chinese designer products — bags, shoes, clothing. Whereas previously the Chinese traveled abroad for shopping, now foreign tourists come to China for original local brands. Unique Chinese design has become a new trend among incoming tourists.

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