Wednesday, June 19, 2024 China has witnessed a significant surge from Australian travel following the introduction of a new visa-free travel policy. The policy, which allows Australian citizens to enter China without a visa for stays of up to 15 days, has sparked a rapid increase in travel bookings and inquiries. Immediate Impact and Travel Trends Since the announcement of the visa-free policy, travel platforms and airlines have reported a dramatic uptick in bookings.
Online travel agency Trip.com noted a surge in flight and hotel reservations to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. This immediate response reflects the pent-up demand for travel between the two nations, which had been curtailed by stringent travel restrictions during the pandemic.
Notably, the policy also coincides with China’s broader efforts to boost inbound tourism and reconnect with the global tourism market. In addition to Australia , China has expanded its visa-free entry to include several other countries, aiming to attract a diverse range of international visitors. Broader Impact on Tourism and Economic Relations The visa-free initiative is part of China’s strategic move to rejuvenate its tourism sector and enhance bilateral ties.
According to China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, there has been a threefold increase in inbound tourism orders compared to the same period last year. The policy is not only expected to boost tourism but also to deepen economic and cu.