China’s travel landscape has witnessed a remarkable resurgence as the country’s National Immigration Bureau reported a record-breaking number of trips during the summer holidays. From July 1 to August 29, an astounding 82.41 million trips into and out of China were logged, underscoring a swift rebound in the travel sector.
Of these 82.41 million trips, mainland Chinese residents accounted for 41.19 million, while 32.47 million originated from residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Additionally, 5.06 million trips were undertaken by foreign nationals, reflecting a growing international interest in visiting China.
The surge in travel demand can be attributed, in part, to the easing of COVID-19 control measures earlier this year. With the summer holidays marking the first major vacation period since the relaxation of restrictions, a pent-up desire for travel was unleashed. The increased issuance of China’s entry and exit certificates, as indicated by the 3.42 million ordinary passports and entry-exit permits issued between July 1 and August 29, highlights the growing enthusiasm among Chinese citizens to explore both domestic and international destinations.
Within the same time frame, approximately 18.59 million travel authorizations were granted for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. This reflects not only an upswing in tourism but also improved cross-border cooperation, enabling smoother and more accessible travel experiences for citizens of these regions.
Recognizing the unprecedented surge in summer tourism, the National Immigration Bureau of China proactively responded by enhancing their service capabilities. Additional counters were opened to streamline the document application process, thereby ensuring efficient handling of the increased demand. The extension of service hours and provision of expedited and group services further demonstrated the Bureau’s commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences for all.
The influx of travelers signals not only a comeback for the tourism industry but also stands as a testament to China’s effective handling of the pandemic. The willingness of residents to venture out and explore, coupled with the country’s commitment to ensuring safe and convenient travel, paints a promising picture for the future of global tourism. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the post-pandemic era, China’s summer travel surge offers valuable insights into the dynamics of recovery and the resilience of the human spirit.