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Published on 2024-03-05 10:04:52
The land port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is a hub of activity, with tourists from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao converging and embarking on various trips. This bustling scene is not unique to this port alone, as other border ports across China also witness a similar lively atmosphere.
In 2023, a total of 424 million trips were recorded in and out of border ports in China, marking a significant increase of 266.5 percent compared to the previous year. Among these trips, 206 million were made by mainland residents, while 183 million were made by residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan. The number of trips by foreigners also saw a substantial increase of 693.1 percent, totaling nearly 35.48 million.
The surge in personnel exchanges can be attributed to the implementation of various policies that facilitate entry and exit across borders. Since 2023, there have been several innovative measures in immigration management aimed at accommodating the rapid and frequent international exchanges, thereby enhancing the flow of people between China and foreign countries.
One notable initiative introduced by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) of China in May 2023 was the adjustment and optimization of policies and measures for entry and exit management. This move aimed to enhance the efficiency of personnel mobility across borders. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as facial and fingerprint detection in fast channels, have further streamlined customs clearance processes, making them faster and safer.
The introduction of visa-free transit policies and the relaxation of port visa application requirements have also contributed to the smooth flow of travelers. Foreign nationals transiting China within 24 hours are now exempt from immigration inspection procedures, allowing them to transit directly to a third country or region via designated airports.
Furthermore, the issuance of the new Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card in December 2023 has been hailed as a significant step towards enhancing information services for foreign nationals in China. The card, with five-starred elements symbolizing the Chinese national flag, not only improves safety but also offers greater convenience to foreign residents in China.
As China continues its efforts to expand its opening-up policies and attract more foreign travelers, the NIA remains committed to introducing more convenient measures and policies to facilitate immigration services. These reforms aim to support overseas talents in their endeavors in China, contributing to the nation’s high-quality development and fostering stronger ties with the global community.
In conclusion, the various initiatives and measures undertaken by the Chinese government have greatly enhanced the immigration experience for travelers, ensuring smooth and efficient entry and exit processes at border ports. As China continues to embrace international exchanges and cooperation, these policies will play a vital role in promoting people-to-people connectivity and fostering a more open and welcoming environment for global travelers.
Read the original article on The Standard
