'China Haul' trend highlights growing appeal of shopping in China
Visiting China has become easier due to updated visa policies. The number of countries covered by the 240-hour visa-free transit policy grew to 57. At the same time, 61 countries can now use the 30-day visa-free entry policy for Hainan Province. These changes coincide with a rise in international visitors. Foreign arrivals reached 22.91 million in the first half of 2026. This represents a 20.4 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Visiting China has also become easier. Since Aug. 20, the number of countries covered by the 240-hour visa-free transit policy has increased to 57, while the number of countries eligible for Hainan Province's 30-day visa-free entry policy has risen to 61. In the first half of 2026, the number of foreign arrivals reached 22.91 million, up 20.4 percent year on year.