China will extend its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries including Australia and New Zealand to December 31, 2026 and expand the scheme to cover Sweden, effective November 10, the foreign ministry says.

The extension covers 32 European countries as well as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and several states 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.

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 the

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