Mini Update: China Restores Inbound Tourism & Expands Outbound Travel

China began reopening to international travel on 8 January 2023, but the impact so far has been gradual. There are various reasons, including the Chinese government's decision to phase the scaling up of outbound travel capacity. From today, 15 March, outbound group package tours are permitted to 60 countries worldwide. Independent travellers are, of course, free to travel globally. Also from today, China will begin issuing tourist entry visas, and has reestablished visa-free access to Hainan Island and for cruise passengers docking in Shanghai. So what does this all mean for the travel recovery in South East Asia and across Asia Pacific? When will there be more flights to and from China? And why is this all happening now? Gary guides you through the latest developments in this Mini Update - the first of a new series of short, quick-fire podcasts addressing the contexts of a hot travel topic. The references mentioned for further information can be found on our website, www.theseasiatravelshow.com