29th November 2024 – Beijing: Beginning December 1, 2024, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and the Hengqin Guangdong-Macao Deep Cooperation Zone will adopt a new multiple-entry visa policy, allowing greater travel flexibility for visitors heading to Hong Kong and Macao. The announcement was confirmed by the National Immigration Administration, marking a significant step in facilitating easier movement between mainland China and these Special Administrative Regions (SARs).
Policy Background and Government Plans
This initiative follows a request from the Hong Kong government to the central government for the optimization of travel visa arrangements for mainland residents. In the 2024 Policy Address, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, emphasized the need to restore the multiple-entry Individual Visit Endorsements (IVE) for Shenzhen, while expanding the “one trip per week” IVE policy to include additional pilot cities. These measures aim to boost the flow of visitors and support sectors such as tourism, retail, and dining in Hong Kong.
Lee expressed his gratitude for the central government’s positive response and commitment to advancing these visa reforms. He indicated that further announcements regarding the new policy are expected soon, and reassured that Hong Kong government departments are well-prepared to ensure smooth implementation to facilitate increased travel and economic interaction.
Strengthening Guangdong-Hong Kong Economic Ties
Earlier this week, Lee led a high-level delegation of government officials and business representatives to Guangzhou for the Guangdong-Hong Kong Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange Meeting. This event marked another milestone in the strengthening of economic relations between Guangdong Province and Hong Kong. During the meeting, agreements valued at over 100 billion yuan (approximately HK$118 billion) were signed, underscoring the robust and growing economic ties between the two regions.
The multiple-entry visa policy, coupled with these recent agreements, signals a concerted effort by both the central government and local authorities to deepen economic cooperation and stimulate cross-border travel and trade. By improving the ease of travel for mainland residents, Hong Kong expects to see a boost in both inbound tourism and retail activity, which are vital for the region’s post-pandemic economic recovery.
Implications for Tourism and Retail
The implementation of the multiple-entry visa policy is expected to have immediate positive impacts on Hong Kong’s tourism sector, as it facilitates more frequent visits from mainland residents. Visitors from Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and Hengqin will benefit from easier and more flexible travel arrangements, which are likely to boost retail spending, dining experiences, and tourism-related activities. Hong Kong’s government is preparing to fully leverage these measures to invigorate the city’s economy and enhance its status as a global tourism hub.
The policy change aligns with broader efforts to improve connectivity and ease of travel within the Greater Bay Area, fostering increased economic integration and providing opportunities for businesses across Guangdong and Hong Kong to collaborate on a range of initiatives.
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