China will extend its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries including Australia, France, Germany and now, Sweden, to December 31, 2026.

The policy will be effective on November 10, the foreign ministry said on Monday.

The extension covers 32 European countries as well as several nations in South America and the Gulf region, a statement released by the foreign ministry's consular affairs department showed.

The policy was scheduled to expire at the end of this year for many of the countries.

Bid to boost tourism

China has offered visa-free entry to citizens from dozens of countries in recent years as part of efforts to woo foreign visitors, revive a tourism sector battered by years of strict COVID-19 controls, and boost foreign engagement.

The United States, Canada and Britain are no

See Full Page