(ECNS) — Business visitors from Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation member economies accounted for 60.54% of overseas business visitors entering China through ports in Guangzhou since the opening of the 140th China Import and Export Fair, the Guangzhou General Station of Immigration Inspection said.
The fair’s second phase closed Tuesday, while the third phase is set to open Saturday. Shenzhen will host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting Nov. 18-19, bringing a series of major international events to the region.
As of Wednesday, the fair had attracted 278,000 overseas buyers. Among them, 146,200 visits by buyers from APEC member economies were recorded at ports including Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and the Pazhou Ferry Terminal, up 21.5% from a year earlier. Malaysia, Thailand, Russia, Australia and Singapore were among the leading sources.
Simplified entry procedures have helped support the flow of business visitors. Holders of APEC Business Travel Cards can use streamlined immigration clearance services. From Nov. 1, eligible cardholders will be allowed to stay in China for up to 90 days, making it easier to arrange business trips involving multiple destinations.
Some buyers are also planning to travel to Shenzhen for APEC-related business activities after attending the fair in Guangzhou. Serge, an Australian business visitor, said China’s visa-free policy made traveling to the country "very simple and smooth."
The Guangzhou General Station of Immigration Inspection has opened dedicated lanes for Canton Fair participants at passenger inspection ports, increased foreign-language services and expanded the use of smart inspection equipment to facilitate entry and exit during the events.
(By Tang Yuxian)
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