DidaTravel data reveals removal of visa restrictions boosts inbound China bookings

DidaTravel reported a 50% week-on-week increase in hotel sales from six countries

Global travel distribution company DidaTravel has unveiled data that shows a positive impact for inbound travel to China, following the recent visa exemption announcement. 

China recently announced a new visa-free policy for passports holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia, which took effect on December 1, 2023.

It will last for one year and applies to trips of up to 15 days for business travel, tourism, visiting relatives and friends and for transitioning within China. 

The aim of this policy is to create convenience for passport holders from these countries in order to stimulate inbound tourism.

DidaTravel’s booking data has revealed that since the implementation of the recent visa-free policy, hotel bookings from the six countries named have grown by over 50%, from December 1 to December 7, in comparison to the previous week. 

In fact, hotel bookings for travellers from Spain to China have jumped by more than 100%, compared to the same period last week. 

Bookings from Italy and Malaysia to China saw an impressive increase of 50% and 67% week on week, respectively.

According to DidaTravel’s year-to-date total transaction value, Spain, Malaysia, and Italy have been among the top 20 source markets for inbound China travel in 2023.

Rikin Wu, Founder & CEO of DidaTravel, says: “We were really excited about the growth opportunity for China’s inbound tourism sector as result of this news and these initial figures are very encouraging. 

"Thanks to proactive policies like this, that create a strong business environment for tourism, we are able to unlock the full potential of the demand that exists to experience China. 

"As one of the pioneering B2B hotel distributors in China, we are committed to supporting our global partners with our expertise and leading portfolio of products in China – including not only hotels, but also tours, experiences and transfers. 

He added: "We look forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world and exploring new opportunities for collaboration within the country’s ever evolving tourism industry.”