China's State Council approved the Plan to Expand Consumption (15th Five-Year). It calls to expand inbound consumption by steadily widening the list of visa-free countries and further optimizing transit visa-free arrangements, and to add international air routes with priority for more direct flights to Europe, the US and Belt and Road partner countries. The plan directs upgrades to international services in public venues, an improved payment environment for inbound spending, and faster processin

China's State Council approved the Plan to Expand Consumption (15th Five-Year). It calls to expand inbound consumption by steadily widening the list of visa-free countries and further optimizing transit visa-free arrangements, and to add international air routes with priority for more direct flights to Europe, the US and Belt and Road partner countries. The plan directs upgrades to international services in public venues, an improved payment environment for inbound spending, and faster processing for customs, accommodation registration, transport, telecom and attraction reservations. It seeks to liberalize departure tax-refund procedures, increase tax-free shops and promote buy-now-refund-on-the-spot services, encourage more domestic brands in port and city duty-free shops, and develop high-recognition consumer brands, cultural landmarks, experiential events and internationally oriented education, healthcare and MICE markets.