The National Immigration Administration announced a significant upgrade to China's visa-free transit policy on October 17. Effective immediately, the duration of visa-free transit has been extended from 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours. Additionally, 21 new ports, including Fuzhou Changle International Airport, have been added to the list of approved visa-free transit entry points. In response, the Fuzhou municipal government introduced a comprehensive plan on October 19 to implement this policy effectively.

Fuzhou's plan focuses on optimizing customs clearance, enhancing the visitor experience, and promoting the city's tourism offerings. By integrating business, culture, tourism, sports, and healthcare, the city aims to make travel seamless and enjoyable for international visitors, fostering growth in sectors such as tourism, commerce, hospitality, transportation, and retail. The measures include facilitating entry and exit procedures, improving supporting services such as accommodation registration and scenic spot ticketing, and continuously upgrading mobile payment systems to ensure foreign travelers can make transactions effortlessly. The city also plans to establish high-end international venues, including brand stores, restaurants, hotels, and pedestrian streets, to cater to the needs of global visitors.

Fuzhou Changle International Airport is undergoing a transformation to accommodate the new 240-hour visa-free transit policy. A dedicated visa-free transit counter has been set up in the border inspection hall, equipped with facilities to expedite applications and customs clearance. A real-time management system has also been developed to monitor visa-free transit visitors, ensuring compliance and addressing overstays promptly. Meanwhile, staff training programs have been organized to ensure top-notch service is delivered to international travelers.

To elevate the consumption experience, Fuzhou secured approval in August to establish downtown duty-free stores. Preparations are underway to launch these stores, offering foreign travelers cost-effective, duty-free goods and unique local specialties. The initiative complements the visa-free transit policy, making Fuzhou an attractive shopping destination for transit passengers.

To boost tourism, Fuzhou has produced a promotional video, Experience the Charm of Fuzhou, showcasing the city's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traveler-friendly policies. Additionally, bilingual tourist guides and maps have been published, providing comprehensive and user-friendly navigation tools for visitors.

Moreover, Fuzhou is leveraging platforms like the Maritime Silk Road International Tourism Center and the Fuzhou Tourism Consultation Service Center to enhance international communication. These hubs offer essential services, including consultations and mobile payment assistance, further integrating the city into the global tourism market.

With these initiatives, Fuzhou is poised to attract more international travelers, making their visit to the city a seamless and memorable experience.