China's Ministry of Commerce has released its updated 2026 guidebook to further support foreign business businesspeople working and living in China.
At a regular press conference on Thursday, ministry spokesman He Yadong announced the release of the 2026 edition of the Guide to Working and Living in China for Business Expatriates.
Now in its third consecutive year, the latest edition offers practical information and has been well received by foreign businesspeople coming to China, he noted.
"In terms of policy, for example, we have expanded the scope of unilateral visa-free policies and optimized the coverage of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. In addition, we have introduced a new section on tax refunds for departures, systematically explaining the policy and handling procedures," said He.
"Regarding convenient services, for instance, we have added information about applying for and using eSIM cards to enhance communication convenience. We have also updated the list of cities where foreign visitors can tap their bank cards, mobile payment apps, or transit cards to access subway gates," he said.
"The Ministry of Commerce will continue to pay close attention to the needs of foreign business professionals and work to create an even friendlier, more efficient, and convenient environment for their development in China," said the spokesman.
China updates guide for foreign business expats: commerce ministry
