China Eastern Launches First Middle-East Fifth-Freedom Cargo Route Linking Shanghai, Riyadh and Budapest
CIIE Organisers Set Up ‘Fast-Lane’ Entry-Exit Services as Shanghai Prepares for Record-Setting Import Expo
Canadian Education Mission Kicks Off Travel Day from Shanghai to Beijing Amid Renewed Academic Mobility
Latest News
Royal Caribbean’s ‘Spectrum of the Seas’ Departs Shanghai, Marking Peak-Season Return of International Cruises
Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas set sail from Shanghai on 2 November 2025 on a four-night Okinawa itinerary, benefiting from streamlined biometric embarkation and expanded duty-free allowances. The sailing signals the full return of international cruises from mainland China, creating new leisure and incentive-travel options for expatriates and corporate groups.
Hainan Offshore Duty-Free Rules Expanded as New Categories and Age Limit Kick In
China’s upgraded offshore duty-free scheme took effect in Hainan on November 1 2025, adding new product classes, raising the eligibility age to 18, and expanding benefits to all outbound travelers. The move widens shopping choice, grants VAT rebates on selected Chinese goods, and is expected to boost duty-free sales and inbound tourism—important for companies sending staff through Hainan or sourcing corporate gifts.
ICBC Deploys Full-Service “Financial Bridge” to Smooth Inbound Traffic for 8th CIIE
On November 1 2025, ICBC detailed an expanded “financial bridge” programme to streamline visas, payments and customs for the thousands of overseas exhibitors and buyers heading to Shanghai’s 8th China International Import Expo. Fast-track account opening, digital guarantees and airport green-channels aim to cut travel friction and costs, underscoring China’s efforts to welcome back large-scale inbound business travel.