The Chinese tourism industry is welcoming the government decision to expand visa-free entries to citizens from another six countries, hoping for faster business rebound with the favorable policy and the upcoming holiday season.

In another important move to boost post-pandemic tourism, China has announced a trial of visa-free travel for six countries, namely France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. From December to 30 November 2024, ordinary passport holders from these countries can do business or travel in China without a visa for up to 15 days. Officials say it will help "promote China's high-quality development and opening up."

After the announcement, Patricia Flor, Germany's ambassador to China, wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "This decision will facilitate travel to China for many German citizens to an unprecedented extent." French foreign minister Catherine Colonna, who was in Beijing last week, wrote on X: "An excellent new announcement on the occasion of my visit from my counterpart Wang Yi!"

Earlier, China's inbound tourism policies were further relaxed. Starting from Nov. 17, China's 72 or 144 hour transit visa-free policy has been extended to 54 countries. The visa application process for foreigners wanting to come to China will also be simplified, aiming to draw more international visitors.

"Visa-free arrangements have a great effect on promoting inbound travel. We currently aren't involved much in inbound travel, but as the market continues to open up, we will increase our business in this area. With the improvements in tourism resources, I believe there will be more and more inbound tourists," said Qi Chunguang, vice president of Chinese online travel agency Tuniu.

Malaysia is also granting 30-day visa-free travel for Chinese citizens starting Dec. 1. As more beneficial policies are released for the tourism industry, travel agencies are expressing confidence in the market and are actively releasing new packages for consumers.

"This year's outbound travel starts from zero. Especially after August, the entire tourism industry has been more excited. Everyone is working hard on overseas resources. Now, it seems that New Year's Day and Spring Festival will be quite popular. At present, the Aurora viewing products in Northern Europe during the Spring Festival have been mostly sold out. Other tours like in Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East and Africa, the Belt and Road countries, and countries like Sri Lanka, are quite popular too," said Qi.

With the festivals coming up, travel agencies are looking forward to having a busy season ahead.