Chinese Visa Applications Almost Back to 2019 Levels, Signalling Powerful Restart of Outbound Market
China Eastern Opens Xi’an–Vienna Non-Stop Service, Linking Ancient Silk Road City with Central Europe
Etihad Unveils Massive China Expansion: Five New Cities and 35 Weekly Flights from Abu Dhabi
Latest News
China Counts 311 International Ports and Unveils Stricter Quarantine List to Safeguard Re-Opening
A People’s Daily report says China now operates 311 international ports and will activate a new invasive-species quarantine catalogue on 1 May 2026. Customs will pair AI detection and smart risk-profiling with tougher penalties for non-compliant cargo, raising the bar for importers but promising faster clearance for trusted traders. Travellers should expect stricter checks on food and biological items in luggage.
State Council Names New Deputy Chief at National Immigration Administration
The State Council has appointed Chi Jingyang as vice-director of the National Immigration Administration, replacing Zhang Yong. Chi’s border-police background suggests continued drive for smarter, faster passenger clearance alongside stricter enforcement against illegal stay and work. Multinationals should watch for new digital-processing pilots and tighten compliance ahead of the busy May holiday season.
Hong Kong braces for record 980,000 mainland arrivals over Labour Day Golden Week
Hong Kong expects about 980,000 mainland Chinese arrivals during the 1-5 May Labour Day holiday, a 7 % year-on-year rise. Border agencies will open an inter-departmental command centre, add manpower and boost rail, bus and bridge capacity to keep traffic moving. The surge signals a strong recovery in cross-border leisure and business travel but also raises pressure on immigration facilities and transport networks.
China Eastern inaugurates Xi’an–Vienna route, expanding Europe-China connectivity
China Eastern Airlines began direct Xi’an–Vienna flights on 20 April, operating three times weekly with A330-200s. The link shortens travel time for central-China exporters and Austrian investors, adds much-needed cargo capacity and forms part of the airline’s broader 2026 international expansion. Corporates gain new one-stop alternatives to central European hubs and promotional fare opportunities.
Shanghai opens registration for 6th Global Talents Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition
Shanghai has opened applications for its 6th Global Talents Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition, welcoming foreign start-ups in six strategic sectors. Winners can access loans, office space and expedited work-and-residence permits, making the programme a practical gateway for overseas entrepreneurs looking to establish operations in China.