43国加入免签“朋友圈”，“中国游”“中国购”再升温

Core Insights - The influx of foreign tourists to China is significantly increasing due to visa-free and tax refund policies, with a 59.4% year-on-year growth in foreign visitors during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday [1] - The challenge for the tourism industry is to convert this influx of visitors into sustained economic benefits [1] Visa Policy Expansion - As of June 1, China has expanded its visa-free policy to include countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, bringing the total number of countries eligible for this policy to 43 [3] - Travelers from Brazil and Argentina have expressed positive experiences regarding the visa-free entry, highlighting the convenience and potential for increased business travel [3] Tourism Product Development - Travel agencies are actively developing new products to cater to the growing South American inbound tourism market, focusing on unique routes and experiences in Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta [4] - The introduction of new travel routes aims to enhance the overall visitor experience and encourage longer stays [4] Shopping Trends - The trend of "China shopping" is gaining momentum, with foreign tourists increasingly purchasing high-quality and cost-effective Chinese products during their visits [6] - Tourists are sharing their shopping experiences on social media, emphasizing the affordability of products compared to their home countries [6][7] Consumption Potential - The Ministry of Commerce has indicated that inbound tourism consumption could represent about 0.5% of China's GDP in 2024, compared to 1% to 3% in other major countries, indicating significant growth potential [10] - Various regions are exploring ways to convert tourist flow into consumer spending, with initiatives to enhance tourism services and promote unique travel experiences [10] Addressing Challenges - There are existing challenges in less popular tourist cities, such as language barriers and insufficient payment options for foreign visitors, which need to be addressed to fully capitalize on inbound tourism [10] - Industry professionals suggest improving infrastructure and service capabilities to enhance the overall experience for foreign tourists [10] Innovation in Tourism Products - The tourism industry is encouraged to innovate and design new products that reflect local culture and history, enhancing the appeal of travel experiences for foreign visitors [11] - The successful implementation of visa-free policies sets the stage for the tourism industry to develop engaging and culturally rich offerings [11]