Visa-free visits and outbound travel boost mutual understanding

Still hesitating about traveling to, studying in or doing business with China? The following numbers might help change your mind.

In the first half of 2025, foreign nationals made a total of 38.05 million trips to or from China, an increase of 30.2 percent year-on-year, the National Immigration Administration said on Wednesday. Of these trips, 13.64 million were visa-free entries — which is more than the population of a megacity — up 53.9 percent from the same period last year.

These trips accounted for 71.2 percent of all inbound trips made by foreigners in the first half of the year.

Thanks to a growing list of unilateral visa-free agreements with countries across Europe, Southeast Asia and beyond, it is easier than ever to enter China without excessive paperwork. China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows travelers from 55 countries to transit through China without a visa for up to 240 hours.

On the other hand, the number of Chinese citizens traveling abroad has also risen rapidly. This increased two-way movement of people is helping other countries better understand China.

The impact is already visible in international perceptions. A new Pew Research Center survey, released on Tuesday and based on responses from more than 30,000 people across 25 countries, reveals several key shifts in global attitudes toward China. Conducted between Jan 8 and April 26, the study found that compared to last year views about China have turned favorable in 15 of the 25 countries surveyed.

One of the most notable trends is generational. In most countries, younger people are more positive about China than older respondents. This younger demographic is also more likely to form opinions based on direct experiences, social media content and peer networking, rather than through legacy media narratives or assumptions.

In addition, more people now see China as the world's leading economic power, a marked change from Pew's 2023 survey and a reflection of China's growing global influence through innovation, trade and high-quality development.

These changing views reflect a reality many are discovering firsthand. The China of today is dynamic, forward-looking and deeply engaged with the world. From high-speed rail networks and AI-driven cities to vibrant cultural festivals and thriving innovation hubs, China offers not only modern infrastructure but a new model of development, one that emphasizes quality, sustainability and openness.

And this openness is intentional. China is advancing high-level opening-up not just through policy, but through action. It is about more than trade and investment, it is about encouraging people-to-people exchanges, educational partnerships, tourism and shared innovation. Whether it is easier visa access, multilingual services at airports and train stations, or international cooperation zones, the door to China is wide open and increasingly welcoming.

What is also helping is China's role as a source of stability and certainty in a turbulent global landscape. At a time when many regions are facing economic headwinds and geopolitical tensions, China's long-term development strategies, policy consistency and emphasis on peaceful cooperation stand out. Its approach to modernization, rooted in national conditions, yet globally connected, is being recognized as both effective and inspiring.

The result? A growing number of international visitors are not just impressed, they are surprised. Many describe the China they encounter as "unexpected", "fascinating" or even "cool". This is a country breaking through cliches and showing the world what modernization with Chinese characteristics really looks like and how it can offer new ideas for global development.

So, if you are still wondering whether it is time to explore China, the signs are clear. People are coming. Views are shifting. Connections are deepening.

- Zhang Xi, China Daily