China has announced an easing of visa restrictions for residents of Shenzhen traveling to Hong Kong. Starting December 1, Shenzhen residents will be able to apply for multiple-entry visas, allowing them to visit Hong Kong multiple times within a year, with each stay lasting up to seven days. This change was reported by Xinhua on November 29.
This new policy reinstates a multiple-entry system that was in place until 2015 when it was tightened due to concerns over overcrowding and unregulated trade. Previously, Shenzhen residents could only visit Hong Kong once a week under the stricter rules. The aim of the original restrictions was to address frustrations in Hong Kong regarding traders who frequently crossed the border to purchase goods for resale in mainland China.
Hong Kong officials believe that this policy change will positively impact tourism-related sectors such as retail and dining. John Lee, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, had previously discussed enhancing tourism policies with Beijing and expressed gratitude for the central government’s responsiveness to his suggestions.
In addition to the changes for Shenzhen residents, visa regulations for Zhuhai residents have also been relaxed. Starting January 1, Zhuhai residents will be allowed to enter Macao once a week for stays of up to seven days. This is an improvement from their previous allowance of one entry every two months.
The Hong Kong government has welcomed these developments, stating that they will facilitate easier access for Shenzhen residents and stimulate economic activity in the city. Officials are planning to promote Hong Kong as a tourist destination more aggressively in Shenzhen, especially during the busy holiday season.
Fanny Yeung from the Travel Industry Council noted that December is a peak travel month and expressed optimism about the benefits this new visa scheme will bring to various sectors. She also indicated that changes in consumer habits may reduce concerns about parallel trading issues that arose during previous visa arrangements.
Since the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, Hong Kong has seen a steady increase in visitors from mainland China, with over 25 million arrivals recorded from January to September this year, marking a significant rise from last year.
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