China Expands Visa-Free Travel for Japan

China is set to expand its visa-free travel program to include Japanese nationals starting November 30, 2024, allowing stays of up to 30 days without a visa. This initiative is part of a broader expansion that will also see Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, and Latvia added to the list of countries eligible for visa-free access. The program aims to boost tourism and investment from Japan, particularly following discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. While China had previously suspended visa exemptions for Japanese visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has reinstated similar arrangements for other countries, reflecting its desire to stimulate economic activity. Japan, however, has maintained its visa requirements for Chinese nationals, which complicates the bilateral relationship. The renewed visa policy underscores China's strategy to enhance international ties amidst economic challenges.