China is gearing up for a massive surge in international travel during the upcoming New Year holiday. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) forecasts that daily inbound and outbound passenger trips will reach 2.05 million, marking an 18.8% increase compared to the same period last year.
The peak travel times are expected on the evening of December 31, 2024, and on January 1, 2025. This significant rise in travel is attributed to improved visa-free transit policies, multiple-entry permits for mainland residents visiting Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions, and other measures that facilitate easier movement.
Major international airports across China are preparing for the influx. Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport are projected to handle an average of 41,000, 94,000, 43,000, and 16,000 passenger trips daily, respectively.
Land border ports near Hong Kong and Macao are also anticipating increased traffic. The Gongbei port in Zhuhai is expected to process an average of 360,000 passenger trips per day, while the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is forecasted to handle around 96,000 daily.
To ensure smooth operations during the holiday rush, the NIA has issued directives to enhance border management. They are urging border control agencies to monitor passenger flows closely and provide real-time information to help travelers plan effectively.
The NIA advises all travelers to stay updated on border traffic conditions and to verify the validity of their travel documents before departure. If any issues arise at the border, travelers can call the 12367 immigration service hotline or seek assistance from on-site immigration officers.
Reference(s):
China: Daily inbound, outbound trips in New Year holiday to exceed 2m
cgtn.com
