At 13th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) tourism ministerial meeting in Macau Saturday, China's Minister of Culture and Tourism, Sun Yeli,pushed for stronger ties among Apec nations to boost tourism as key economic engine. He noted "high-quality development of cultural tourism" is main focus in China's five-year plan for 2026-2030.
Sun laid out several proposals to make travel easier for international tourists. China ready to sync its policies with others,he said,advocating for mutual visa exemptions,fast customs clearance,cross-border payment solutions,and tax refunds for those leaving. Goal: smoother travel,more accessible tourism.
By end of last year,China had mutual visa exemption deals with 29 nations and allowed visa-free entry for travelers from 48 countries . Also, a 240-hour visa-free transit policy applies to 65 entry ports,making international travel easier.
Sun's comments part of bigger strategy to boost tourism within Apec,positioning it as key to regional economic growth. Ministers from various places,including Hong Kong,convened to discuss tourism's future in Asia-Pacific . How far will these plans go…?
