Benefits of China Covid 19 Zero Policy
Oh, great news, China is finally letting people in again! This means people can travel for work, study, and family reunions, from March 15, 2021. This is a big step for China, because of the China Covid 19 zero policy. It was implemented to help stop and contain the spread of the virus.
Don’t worry about the annoying little virus, though. That’s because they’ll quarantine you for a few weeks, and then you’ll gain your freedom again. By reopening its borders to strangers again, China hopes to boost its tourism industry, attract foreign investments, and accommodate the movement of skilled workers. Who cares about personal freedom when you can help boost the economy? Plus, it’s not like the virus is a big deal anymore.
It is, however, important to note that China allowing visa issuance does not mean that the country has abending its effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. China will still require foreign strangers to go through rigorous health screenings and quarantine measures upon arrival to ensure that the virus does not enter the country.
China Abandons “Covid Zero” Policy
Looks like China’s “Covid Zero” policy didn’t quite have the staying power they hoped for. In December, amid growing public dissatisfaction and protests, the world’s second-largest economy unexpectedly shifted gears and neglected their strict methods. And what better way to show the world they mean business than by ditching quarantine rules for inbound travelers on January 8th? It’s almost as if they’re saying “Welcome back, world! Come on in and experience the best of what our country has to offer… as long as you don’t mind the occasional pandemic or two!” But hey, at least they’re making an effort to reopen their once-busy borders after nearly three years of closures.
Take a Tourist Paradise Vacation in China
Isn’t this just fantastic news? China is opening up its doors to foreigners and even offering visa-free entry to certain places like Hainan Island and cruise ships stopping in Shanghai. And let’s not forget about the lucky folks from Hong Kong and Macau who can now saunter into Guangdong without a care in the world! It’s like a paradise for tourists, with endless opportunities for adventure and fun. Who cares if the world is still in the midst of a pandemic?
China’s Inbound and Outbound Travel Plummets Amidst Pandemics
Well, it looks like the pandemic has really put a damper on China’s travel industry. According to the Ministry of Public Security, the number of inbound and outbound trips in 2022 was a measly 115.7 million, which is less than a fifth of the number of trips made in 2019. And it’s not just foreigners staying away – even mainland residents only made 64.6 million trips last year, which is also about a fifth of pre-Covid levels. It’s almost as if people are afraid to travel during a global pandemic!
Chinese Authorities Relaxing China Covid 19 Regulations
The Chinese airlines are finally catching a break after a rough year. With the resumption of overseas group trips and the reopening of international routes, they have been able to ramp up and meet the growing demand. According to an estimate from Citic Securities cited by the China Securities Journal, this year’s number of international flights is expected to reach 50%-60% of the pre-pandemic levels and exceed that mark in 2024.
Even the Chinese authorities are feeling a little more relaxed these days. They’ve even loosened Covid test requirements for travelers from a few select countries, including New Zealand, Russia, and Malaysia from March. Air passengers only need to provide negative rapid antigen test results before boarding flights to China, and carriers aren’t required to check test results prior to boarding.
China Adapting to the New Normal After Covid-19
China’s new Premier Li Qiang is ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work! At a meeting of the national legislature, he called for more effort to meet a 5% growth target for the year. Clearly, he’s saying “Come on, guys, we can do this! Let’s put all our energy into promoting economic growth and making China great again. Let’s not worry about little things like public health and safety when there’s a growth target to meet. After all, a booming economy is the key to happiness, right? If anything, Qi should reach out to the U.S. Federal Reserve to help with economic growth. I’m sure the Fed will implement the same strategy they’re using on the U.S. economy, for the Chinese.
In conclusion, looks like China is starting to open up its doors to the rest of the world again. The reopening of visas for foreigners, visa-free entry to certain places, and the relaxing of Covid test requirements are all positive developments for China’s tourism industry and economy. In the coming months, it’ll be interesting to see how the country adapts to the new normal after the pandemic. Are people going to be cautious about traveling or will they flock to China? Most importantly, can China meet its growth targets? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – it’s going to be an interesting ride!
