China Leads Global Tourism Growth with Visa-Free Travel Initiatives, Get the Details Here

Published on December 16, 2025

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) hailed China’s recent visa-free policy and travel facilitation schemes, which greatly helped in the development of tourism within China. To show their appreciation and respect for China’s actions, WTTC highlighted the economic significance and potential for expansion created by such moves. This took place at the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) held at Harbin in China where tourism authorities from across the globe met to determine the possible future of tourism across the globe and China’s potential within the tourism environment.

WTTC’s Acknowledgment of China’s Travel Facilitation Measures

During her keynote speech at the GTEF, WTTC Interim President & CEO Gloria Guevara underscored the importance of China’s progressive policies in boosting the country’s tourism industry. She specifically highlighted visa-free policies and transit visa initiatives that have made international travel to China easier and more accessible for tourists around the world.

Guevara pointed out that China’s Travel & Tourism sector is not only experiencing rapid growth but is also establishing itself as a vital player in the global tourism economy. With its rich heritage, dynamic cities, diverse landscapes, and top-tier infrastructure, China is attracting travelers from every corner of the globe, positioning itself as a go-to destination for both cultural exploration and modern tourism experiences.

“China’s Travel & Tourism sector continues to gain strength,” Guevara stated. “Travellers come for the heritage, the energy of the cities, the landscapes, and the calibre of the country’s infrastructure. China offers a breadth of experiences that appeals to visitors from all over the world.”

Strong Economic Performance in 2025 and Growth Projections

According to the WTTC, China’s tourism sector is expected to contribute $1.9 trillion to the national economy in 2025, growing at an impressive annual rate of 15.8%, which is double the global average. This robust growth is driven by both domestic and international tourism, with inbound visitor spending anticipated to reach $144.1 billion, and domestic tourism spending forecast to approach $968 billion.

The impressive performance of China’s tourism industry is largely attributed to the government’s policies that make traveling in the country more accessible and convenient. These policies have fostered confidence among businesses to invest in the tourism sector and have provided tourists with a greater sense of freedom to explore the country’s vast cultural and natural offerings.

Moreover, the WTTC highlighted the role of visa-free initiatives in facilitating the growth of inbound tourism. China is expecting inbound visits from newly visa-free countries to reach 15 million by the end of 2026, with these travelers expected to spend, on average, $1,000 more than other international visitors. This influx of high-spending tourists is set to further enhance China’s position in the global tourism market.

Long-Term Expansion and Employment Impact

Looking further into the future, the WTTC predicts that China’s Travel & Tourism sector will continue to expand at an average annual rate of 7% over the next decade, reaching a GDP contribution of $3.8 trillion by 2035. This growth will account for nearly 14% of China’s national economy, marking the tourism industry as a critical pillar of the country’s economic future.

By 2031, the WTTC forecasts that China will overtake the United States to become the world’s largest Travel & Tourism market. In terms of employment, the sector is expected to support 103 million jobs by 2035, with one in five new global tourism jobs being created in China.

This growth will not only enhance China’s economic standing but will also contribute significantly to global tourism, offering ample opportunities for international businesses to invest in the country’s tourism sector.

Harbin as a Model for Destination Development

At the GTEF, Harbin, a city known for its winter tourism, was highlighted as a successful example of destination development. The city has successfully positioned itself as a leading destination for winter tourism, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its famous ice sculptures, winter festivals, and snow-covered landscapes.

In the last winter season, Harbin welcomed 90 million visitors and saw nearly 17% growth in tourism spending, reaching $19 billion. The city’s example serves as a model for how destinations in China can leverage their natural strengths to develop world-class visitor experiences that attract global tourists. Harbin’s success has inspired other destinations across China to explore ways to enhance their tourism offerings, showcasing the potential for further growth and development in the sector.

China’s Continued Leadership in the Global Tourism Sector

The WTTC’s endorsement of China’s tourism policies and development strategies signals the country’s growing influence in global tourism. As international travel to China continues to rise, the country is poised to become a central hub for cultural and leisure tourism, as well as a leading destination for those seeking unique, high-quality travel experiences.

“China’s continued leadership presents major opportunities for destinations across the country,” Guevara noted, adding that the successful development of places like Harbin demonstrates how a focus on natural beauty, unique experiences, and sustainable tourism can result in significant economic growth for both the country and its local communities.

WTTC’s Commitment to Collaboration and Sustainable Growth

In addition to recognizing China’s tourism initiatives, the WTTC also announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Global Tourism Economy Forum. This partnership will strengthen collaboration and support the long-term, sustainable growth of China’s Travel & Tourism sector. Through this alliance, the WTTC and GTEF aim to foster international engagement, promote sustainable tourism practices, and drive further investments in China’s tourism infrastructure.

China’s Rising Role in Global Tourism

The acknowledgement of travel facilitation efforts in China by the WTTC marks the growing presence of the nation in the global tourism industry. The efforts exerted by the nation to make travel easier for tourists are now paying off, as it is poised to become one of the leading players in the industry within the next few years. With this, tourism in China is also poised to become one of the leading income generators in the global economy.