China is stepping up efforts to deepen international engagement through expanded visa policies, foreign investment reforms and broader economic cooperation, a direction highlighted during this year’s “Two Sessions” meetings of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

Recent visa facilitation measures have significantly boosted travel into the country. According to the National Immigration Administration, China recorded over 30 million inbound visits by foreign nationals under visa-free policies in 2025, accounting for 73 percent of all foreign entries and marking a near 50 percent year-on-year increase. Current policies include unilateral visa-free entry for citizens of 50 countries and a 240-hour transit visa exemption for travellers from 55 countries.

China also plans to expand market access and open more sectors, particularly in services, while improving pilot free trade zones and advancing the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port.

Officials say efforts will also focus on attracting foreign investment, supporting cross-border trade and expanding Belt and Road cooperation, alongside growth in digital trade, green trade and cross-border e-commerce.