China reopens borders to tourists after 3 years of Covid closure - Travel requirements are enforced

China has officially reopened its borders to international tourists for the first time since imposing COVID-19 restrictions in March 2020.

Reuters reports that mainland China has opened sea and land crossings with Hong Kong and ended the requirement for inbound travelers to self-quarantine.

However, the country will still require proof of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of travel. —

China has resumed issuing passports and travel visas for mainland residents. Ordinary visas and residence permits for foreigners were also issued.

Tens of thousands of travelers began flying to and from mainland China on Sunday.

According to Reuters, investors hope China's reopening will reinvigorate a $17 trillion economy hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read: Easing of China's zero-Covid policy could be music to investors' ears

The Wall Street Journal quoted China's Ministry of Commerce as saying it has received strong support from foreign leaders willing to visit China, check their operations and consider new investments .

On Saturday, China kicked off its 40-day Lunar New Year period, considered one of the biggest holidays in the world. Prior to the COVID pandemic, the festival saw the largest annual migration in the world, with people returning to their hometowns or taking family vacations.

Last month, China eased some of its COVID-19 restrictions following protests in response to the country's tough "zero COVID" policy.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has faced unprecedented opposition as thousands of protesters demonstrated against his "zero-COVID" approach in cities across China, some openly calling for his resignation.

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