This measure will apply from October 15, 2024 and will be in force until December 31, 2025.

During this period, citizens of these nations will be able to enter China visa-free for up to 15 days for activities related to business, tourism, family visits or transit.

“At the same time, we urge relevant countries to further facilitate the visa process for Chinese citizens,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said.

The decision is part of the Chinese efforts to promote outward openness, people-to-people exchanges and foster international cooperation.

China applies a 144-hour visa-free transit policy in 37 ports and for 54 countries, which resulted in an increase in foreign tourism during the summer vacations.

According to the National Immigration Administration, the Asian giant recorded nearly 14.64 million foreign entries in the first half of 2024, a year-on-year increase of 152.7 percent.

According to official figures, more than 8.54 million were made thanks to visa waiver policies.

ef/jav/mem/idm