Approximately 132 million inbound tourists visited China in 2024, with total spending reaching US$94.2 billion, recovering to 97.2% and 93.5% of 2019 levels, respectively.
In the first quarter of 2025, China recorded 3,502 million inbound tourist visits, a 19.6% increase compared to the same period last year, Shi added.
Roundtable staff and industry insiders highlighted a significant increase in inbound travel spending. Mobile payment giant Alipay has reported a 180% surge in inbound tourism spending from May 1st to 3rd this year compared to the same period in 2024.
According to SHI, the surge is being driven by China’s extended visa waiver program and numerous measures aimed at making travel more convenient, including enhanced transportation access, a simplified payment system and immediate tax refunds.
China is currently allowing people from 38 countries to unilaterally unvisa-free entry, extending the visa-free passage period for travelers from 54 countries to 240 hours. Approximately 380,000 foreigners entered China under these arrangements during their May holiday, up 72.7% year-on-year.
Li Jia, a national immigration official, said as more foreign tourists visit China and gain positive experiences, the country’s inbound consumer market continues to increase.