China on Monday announced that travelers from overseas would no longer be required to enter quarantine upon arrival, in one of the country’s most significant steps toward reopening since the coronavirus pandemic began.
From Jan. 8, incoming travelers will be required to show only a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within 48 hours before departure, China’s National Health Commission said. Limitations on the number of incoming flights will also be eased.
The travel restrictions had isolated the world’s most populous country for nearly three years. Foreigners were essentially barred from entering China in 2020, and even when they were allowed back in months later, it was generally only for business or family reunions.