Shanghai’s tourism leaders are hoping to extend the current visa-free policy so that Aussies can stay in the city for up to six days without purchasing a permit.
In early talks with the government, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration’s Vice Chairman told KarryOn she’s eager to see the visa-free hours doubled from 72 to 144.
This would give travellers, particularly those visiting for business, more time to experience ‘The City of Tomorrow’ without applying and paying for an extended stay.
Although it’s still too early to determine whether it will be approved or when it may roll out, Connie Cheng says she expects the government will see the financial benefits of giving Australians additional free-time in the city.
“When business travellers visit they have a tight schedule and trying to fit in their conference plus sightseeing in 72 hours can be difficult.”
Connie Cheng, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration Vice Chairman
“They require more time to see the city and extended the visa-free hours will allow this but also contribute positively to Shanghai.”
Connie also expects extended visa-free hours would encourage more Australians to visit.
According to latest figures, 168,000 Australians visited Shanghai last year. This figure is expected to climb in 2015, with the Municipal reporting signs of a steady rise during the first six months.
Connie says so far growth has come from increasing air availability (15-18 flights out of Sydney and four-five out of Melbourne), the 72-hour visa-free stay as well as growing co-operation between China and Australia.
Additionally, there’s the newly introduced tax refund policy for overseas tourists.
Rolled out at the start of this month, foreign tourists visiting for no more than 183 days can receive a rebate of 11 percent on consumer goods purchased at designated department stores.
“We are natural partners blessed with different attributes and features.”
Connie Cheng, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration Vice Chairman
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