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Mixed Reactions in Asia, Africa About the Return of Chinese Tourists

by Eric Olander
Passengers arriving from China at Incheon International Airport west of Seoul must be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival. Jung Yeon-je / AFP

For the first time in three years, as of Sunday, Chinese nationals are now permitted to travel abroad, prompting a wave of nervous excitement among tourism operators in Asia and elsewhere about the long-awaited return of cash-flush Chinese travelers.

Outbound travel bookings surged 254% immediately after the announcement that all travel restrictions would be removed as of January 8th. Destinations in Asia are by far the most popular choice, which will no doubt come as a relief for the region’s beleaguered travel sector, that has suffered without Chinese visitors.

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