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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 cultural exchanges between China and Australia​​.

Additionally, this policy aligns with China’s goal of high-quality development and high-level opening-up.

It represents a significant step towards fostering friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation between China and other nations​​.

Looking Forward
As China continues to expand its visa-free “circle of friends,” the tourism sector anticipates further growth and recovery.

he United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) projects that the relaxation of visa requirements will help restore international tourism to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024.

This optimistic outlook is supported by increasing flight connections and improved travel policies that simplify entry into China for international travellers​.

For Australians planning to take advantage of this new opportunity, major Chinese cities and popular tourist destinations like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the scenic landscapes of Guilin await exploration.

Travel agencies are gearing up to offer tailored experiences to meet the growing demand from Australian tourists​​.

As this policy continues to unfold, it is expected to play a pivotal role in revitalizing not only China’s tourism industry but also its broader economic and cultural ties with Australia and the world at large.