China has adopted a visa-free policy for citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay, which is expected to promote tourism, enhance people-to-people exchanges and strengthen ties between China and Latin American nations.
Starting Sunday, nationals from these five countries can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for business, tourism, cultural exchange, or transit purposes. The policy will be in effect on a trial basis until May 31, 2026.
The move is part of China's broader efforts to bolster ties with Latin America, especially with Brazil, its largest trading partner in the region.
In an interview with China Global Television Network on the sidelines of the 24th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students held in Rio de Janeiro earlier this month, Tian Min, China's Consul General in Rio, highlighted the significance of the new policy.
"This is the first time the Chinese government is easing entry rules for citizens from Latin America, including Brazil, its biggest trading partner in the region, a move that showcases the deepening ties between China and Latin America," said Tian.
Industry professionals see the new policy as a major boost to tourism and travel between Latin America and China. Simone Hang, owner of the travel agency China-Brasil Turismo, expressed the belief that the policy will dramatically boost travel from Latin America to China.
"China isn't the easiest place to visit for most Latin Americans. From Brazil, it's a 30-hour journey, and since most people only get 10 to 15 days of vacation, they look for closer places. But China is a dream travel destination, and this is a great step that will open more doors for tourism between the countries," said Hang.
China has now extended its unilateral visa-free policy to 43 other countries, resulting in a remarkable surge in international arrivals.
Official data show that during this year's five-day May Day holiday on May 1-5, the total number of foreign entries and exits reached 1.12 million, with 380,000 entries made under the visa exemption policy -- a year-on-year increase of 72.7 percent.
Visa-free policy to boost China-Latin America ties, promote tourism
