Wuxi has introduced ten measures to facilitate the visit and life of foreigners in the city, as announced at a press conference by the municipal government on March 2.

Data showed that Wuxi’s ports processed a total of 354,000 entry-exit trips in 2023, including 27,500 overseas visitors, marking a year-on-year increase of 51.6 times.

Zhao Qiang, director of the city’s Department of Commerce, said the new measures address six scenarios - border checks, payment, consumption, business and work, accommodation and travelling, education and healthcare.

For example, Wuxi plans to implement the 144-hour visa-free transit policy for foreign nationals and expand the application of the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card. The city will accelerate efforts to accept overseas bank cards at its airport, railway stations, shopping districts, scenic spots, hotels and restaurants. Wuxi will open currency exchange points and devices that process payments with foreign bank cards at major ports of entry and in key foreign-related scenarios. Additionally, it will assist foreigners in using WeChat Pay for spending, encourage businesses to accept cash and provide change, and ensure taxis accept cash payments.

Wuxi will provide city guides for foreigners at its airport, railway stations, hotels, public transport network, tourist attractions and important business districts. The city will improve its English language services online and release information on government affairs and living services on the official websites of government departments in a timely manner. It will also enhance information services at its airport, railway stations and ports.

Starting January 31, Wuxi has opened five shops offering instant tax refund services on site.

Last year, Wuxi's total import and export amounted to $100.42 billion. The actual use of foreign investment increased by 7.7% year-on-year to reach $4.12 billion, accounting for 16.3% of the province's total and setting a new record high.