Ningbo's visa-free boom fuels inbound shopping surge

An overseas traveler processes tax refunds. [Photo by Hong Yang/Yongpai App]

Ningbo is becoming an increasingly popular destination for inbound travelers, thanks to China's expanded visa-free policies and the 144-hour transit visa exemptions in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai.

Ningbo Lishe International Airport recorded over 24,000 inbound and outbound passenger arrivals and departures from April 28 to May 5, including 11,881 inbound arrivals.

"Traveling to China is so convenient now," said Vietnamese traveler Ha Dong Nhi, "I only need to buy a plane ticket."

The city's growing international flight network has made spontaneous travel easier, with the airport currently operating 11 international and regional passenger routes, including more frequent flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Macao, while the Budapest route continues to operate stably.

Rising tourist numbers have also given rise to growing shopping enthusiasm, with departure tax refund services becoming a major boost to inbound consumption.

A Russian tourist said accessories purchased in China were much cheaper than in her home country, and a South Korean traveler added that DJI products and trendy blind-box toys were among the most popular purchases.

From January to April this year, Ningbo's departure tax refund amounts surged 181 percent year-on-year. From April 28 to May 5, the number of refund applications at Ningbo Customs rose 7.75 times, with watches, apparel, luggage, and cultural-creative goods among the top consumer picks.