Cambodia launches four-month visa-free trial for Chinese tourists
Stricter device searches and exit bans heighten compliance risk for European business travellers to China
China Airlifts 10,000 Citizens Home as Middle-East Conflict Disrupts Flights
Latest News
China’s Expanding Visa-Free ‘Circle of Friends’ Drives Record Inbound Travel
CCTV reports that China now offers visa-free entry to citizens of 50 countries and mutual waivers with 29 more. Visa-free travellers already account for 73 percent of all foreign entries, helping push 2025 inbound visits to 150 million and spending to US$130 billion. Easier entry, digital payment upgrades and expanded transit waivers are removing friction for tourists and corporate assignees, with more countries expected to join the scheme under the 15th Five-Year Plan.
Japan Approves Immigration Law Amendment—Visa Fees to Rise up to 30-Fold, JESTA Pre-Clearance Introduced
Japan’s cabinet approved a bill on 10 March that raises the statutory ceilings on immigration fees up to 30-fold and introduces a JESTA electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors. Chinese residents—Japan’s largest foreign group—face sharply higher costs for status changes or permanent residence, while businesses must prepare for a more complex compliance landscape.
Stranded Taiwan Compatriots Transit Shanghai Safely After Middle-East Flight Cancellations
After being stranded by Middle-East flight cancellations, more than 70 Taiwan residents flew into Shanghai in the early hours of 10 March and were re-ticketed to Taipei the same day. Shanghai immigration arranged special counters and e-gate processing, underscoring the mainland’s value as a contingency transit hub for cross-strait travellers.
Shanghai Customs Reports Record Traffic—7281 Ships, 4.1 Million Flights Support Rising Mobility
Shanghai Customs says international vessel calls, flights and passenger volumes all rose in January–February 2026, reflecting robust trade and travel demand. Smart-port tools and extended service hours are helping the city absorb growth, but corporates should still plan for congestion during major events.