China has officially announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for numerous countries, including France, Germany and Spain to December 31, 2026, and expanded the scheme to cover Sweden, effective November 10, according to the foreign ministry’s remarks on Monday.
The strategic move is part of a comprehensive effort to fortify its tourism sector and promote international economic cooperation across the country.
China will expand its visa-free entry policy entry for 45 countries, including Australia, France, Germany and Sweden.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Sweden will also be included in the scheme in line with implementing the new move starting from November 10.
Following the new development by removing visa barriers, China aims to captivate the attention of more international visitors and renew global diplomatic and cooperative efforts.
The extension comes as China aims to enhance ties with the European Union which is one of its key trading partners.
Conversely, following the high-level meetings in Brussels, China will reduce trade barriers for rare minerals intended for European countries and to ensure commercial reliability and supply chain stability.
However, experts were of the view that China’s visa policy will not only enhance tourism but continue to promote trade relations within the European countries.
According to data from the National Immigration Administration, more than 20 million international visitors entered in 2024 without a visa.
This figure marks almost one-third of the total and more than double in numbers from the previous year.
Nonetheless, visa-free policy will significantly contribute to boost tourism, economic engagement and signal an approach of maintaining high-standards to the world.
