“中国游”火热 “中国购”升温 中国魅力成为磁吸外国游客的密码

Core Viewpoint - The recent National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday in China saw a significant increase in foreign tourist arrivals, driven by policies such as visa exemptions and tax refunds, leading to a booming consumption market [1][3][18]. Group 1: Foreign Tourist Arrivals - A trial visa exemption policy for Russian passport holders has led to a surge in foreign tourists, particularly in the border city of Heihe, with a 38.46% year-on-year increase in inbound travelers during the first six days of the holiday [3][5]. - The vibrant local markets, such as the early morning market in Heihe, have attracted many foreign visitors, showcasing a lively atmosphere with over 1,600 stalls [3][5]. Group 2: Tourist Experiences and Attractions - Cities like Chongqing have also seen a rise in international visitors, who are drawn to the unique landscape and local cuisine, such as spicy dishes [6]. - New initiatives, such as an upgraded English version of cultural tourism maps and bilingual volunteer service stations, have been introduced in Chongqing to enhance the experience for foreign tourists [8]. Group 3: Shopping Trends - The shopping habits of foreign tourists are evolving, with a shift from traditional souvenirs to trendy items like electronics and local brands, as seen in places like Shenzhen's Huaqiangbei [15]. - Major shopping districts in cities like Shanghai have launched promotional activities to attract foreign shoppers, resulting in a noticeable presence of tourists carrying shopping bags [13]. Group 4: Tax Refund Policies - The implementation of streamlined tax refund services has improved the shopping experience for foreign tourists, with cities like Shanghai introducing a paperless tax refund process [15][17]. - New tax refund policies are being rolled out in more regions, including Guizhou and Jilin, enhancing the convenience for foreign shoppers and contributing to increased international appeal [19][22][26]. - Guizhou has reported a significant increase in inbound travelers, with a 194% year-on-year growth in exit-entry personnel, supported by the introduction of tax refund services and international flight routes [24].