China's Tourism Slump Deters Foreign Investment and Slows Economic Recovery

Foreign tourism in China remains far below pre-pandemic levels, negatively impacting the wider economy. Visitors face visa obstacles, payment issues, and language barriers.

The slow recovery of inbound tourism is reducing foreign investment in China. Investors are hesitant to visit due to security concerns and anti-espionage probes.

In 2019, tourism contributed nearly 11% of China's GDP. But the gap between 2019 and 2023 tourists numbers is now impacting growth and investment.

China has unveiled some measures to boost tourism, like visa simplification. But complicated applications and COVID-era restrictions still deter many travelers.

Stories of foreigners unable to visit elderly family highlight the visa barriers. While domestic travel has rebounded, inbound tourism still lags.