China is gearing up for a significant rise in cross-border travel during the upcoming May Day holiday, with authorities expecting an average of 2.15 million daily border crossings. This represents a 27% increase from last year, according to the National Immigration Administration (NIA).
The five-day holiday, starting on May 1, is anticipated to see peak travel on May 1 and May 5, as travelers take advantage of the extended break. Major international airports are preparing for the surge, with Shanghai Pudong International Airport expected to lead with 101,000 daily crossings. Guangzhou Baiyun and Beijing Capital International Airports are projected to handle 50,000 and 45,000 daily crossings, respectively.
As travel between Hong Kong, Macao, and the Chinese mainland continues to rebound, the May Day holiday is set to bring even higher volumes. The increase is further amplified by a series of major events scheduled across the regions, attracting tourists and boosting cross-border activities.
The NIA has urged border authorities to closely monitor the flow of people and has committed to providing regular updates to assist travelers. The agency emphasized the importance of adequate staffing at border checkpoints to ensure that wait times do not exceed 30 minutes, aiming to provide a smooth and efficient experience for all passengers.
With the anticipated surge in travel, authorities are encouraging passengers to plan their trips carefully, stay informed about immigration policies, and follow health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday period.
