外国人爱上“中国游”

Core Insights - The influx of foreign tourists to China has significantly increased due to the expansion of visa-free policies and tax refund measures, leading to a surge in inbound tourism consumption [4][9][10] Inbound Tourism Growth - In the first half of the year, the number of foreign visitors entering China reached 13.64 million, with a 53.9% year-on-year increase, and 71.2% of these visitors benefited from visa exemptions [4] - Shanghai saw 4.158 million inbound tourists, with overnight stays reaching 3.827 million, both figures showing substantial growth compared to the previous year [6] - Shenzhen reported a 44.7% increase in foreign tourists, totaling 984,100 visitors, indicating a strong recovery in the tourism sector [6] Policy Impact - China has implemented visa-free entry for 75 countries and expanded transit visa exemptions to 55 countries, enhancing its status as a highly efficient entry point for international travelers [5] - The introduction of the "immediate refund" tax policy has improved refund processing efficiency by over 40%, with the number of stores offering tax refunds exceeding 7,200 [5][9] Tourist Preferences and Experiences - Foreign tourists are increasingly seeking diverse and immersive travel experiences, with a 60% increase in the variety of inbound tourism products offered [7][8] - Popular destinations among foreign visitors include Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet, with unique cultural experiences such as local customs and culinary traditions gaining traction [8] Shopping Trends - The trend of "buying in China" has emerged, with many tourists engaging in shopping during their visits, supported by convenient tax refund services [9][10] - The Beijing Silk Street has reported a doubling of inbound tourist numbers and an 80% increase in sales, highlighting the growing interest in Chinese products among foreign visitors [10][11] Digital Services and Convenience - The integration of digital payment systems like Alipay for tax refunds has enhanced the shopping experience for foreign tourists, making transactions seamless and efficient [9][10] - Retail environments are adapting to provide a comprehensive shopping experience, including customized services and a wide range of payment options [11]