China has witnessed a remarkable surge in visa-free foreign arrivals, with official statistics revealing a substantial 49.5% year-on-year increase for 2025. According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics on Saturday, February 28, 2026, the country welcomed 30.08 million international visitors under its visa exemption policies last year.
The dramatic growth in inbound tourism follows China’s strategic expansion of its visa-waiver programs, which now include numerous European and Asian countries. This policy shift represents a significant reversal from the strict border controls maintained during the pandemic years, signaling China’s renewed commitment to global connectivity and international exchange.
Tourism analysts attribute the impressive numbers to multiple factors, including streamlined entry procedures, enhanced promotional efforts showcasing China’s cultural heritage and modern attractions, and improved tourism infrastructure across major cities and historical sites. The hospitality sector has reported corresponding increases in hotel occupancy rates and tourism-related spending, providing a substantial boost to local economies.
This opening initiative aligns with China’s broader economic strategy to stimulate domestic consumption through international tourism while fostering people-to-people diplomacy. The successful implementation of these policies demonstrates China’s evolving approach to global engagement and its recognition of tourism’s role in economic development and cross-cultural understanding.