China's visa-free policy boosts Southeast Asian tourism

Tourists from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are at the forefront of traveling to China under China's visa-free policy, reflecting Beijing's commitment to global openness amid international tensions.

He Quan, a private driver in Yunnan, has noticed a shift in his clientele since China eased its travel restrictions. Previously serving only domestic travelers, he now serves Chinese-speaking tourists from Southeast Asia, especially Singapore and Malaysia, boosting his income and expanding his customer base.

China's move to extend visa exemptions has streamlined travel procedures to a great extent, attracting visitors from nearby Southeast Asian countries. This strategic initiative not only supports the post-pandemic economic recovery but also enhances China's soft power diplomacy amid geopolitical challenges.

Professor Sam Huang, an expert on China tourism, said inbound tourism serves as an important route to showcase China's development to the world amid global uncertainties. He highlighted that short-haul travel from Southeast Asia is affordable and attracts budget-conscious travellers post-pandemic.

Yunnan, with its beautiful landscapes and proximity benefits, has emerged as a top destination for Southeast Asian tourists such as Tan Ziteng from Malaysia. His recent visit for a wedding photoshoot underlines the region's attractiveness and the growing appeal of longer itineraries within China.

The rise in the number of Southeast Asian visitors has also boosted local businesses, with Yunnan's hotels seeing increased occupancy and tour operators showing growing interest in extended travel packages.

While China's visa-free policies have boosted tourism, challenges such as language barriers and logistical issues remain. Despite this, the consensus among travelers and experts is that China’s efforts to attract international visitors are an integral part of its economic strategy and global diplomacy.