dynamics

Border Agencies Boost Customs Clearance for May 1st Holiday

As the May 1st holiday approaches, the average daily volume of travelers entering and leaving the country's ports is projected to reach 2.15 million, reflecting a significant 27% increase compared to the same period last year. The peak days for inbound and outbound passenger flow are expected to occur on May 1 and May 5, highlighting a strong resurgence in travel activity.

Major international airports are anticipating substantial increases in passenger traffic. Notable ports such as Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, Beijing Capital, Hangzhou Xiaoshan, and Chengdu Tianfu are forecasted to handle daily averages of 101,000, 50,000, 45,000, 19,000, and 18,000 inbound and outbound passengers, respectively. This illustrates a consistent upward trend in air travel as holiday festivities draw nearer.

The trend of 'two-way' holiday flows between Hong Kong, Macao, and the mainland has become more commonplace, especially with the anticipation of several large-scale events planned in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. This is expected to considerably elevate customs traffic at the land ports that interface with these regions.

For instance, the average daily entry and exit passenger numbers at various ports are estimated to be quite high, with Shenzhen Luohu, Futian, Shenzhen Bay, Liantang, and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High Speed Rail West Kowloon Station ports expected to see daily figures of 250,000, 220,000, 150,000, 100,000, and 100,000.

Similarly, at the ports of Gongbei, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, Qingmao, and Hengqin, the anticipated daily passenger numbers are projected to reach 370,000, 127,000, 107,000, and 100,000 respectively. This illustrates the bustling activity expected during this holiday period.

In response to this surge in travel, the State Administration of Immigration has rolled out specific measures to streamline border inspections during the May 1st holiday. This includes directives for border agencies to enhance monitoring of traveler volumes and port operations.

Additionally, the Administration has mandated that pertinent agencies publish real-time updates on passenger flow at ports to assist in managing the expected influx of travelers. These proactive steps are aimed at ensuring minimal wait times, with the goal that Chinese citizens will not experience delays longer than 30 minutes.

Moreover, the State Administration of Immigration is collaborating with port joint inspection units and relevant departments to create robust passenger flow guidance and comprehensive transport support during peak clearance times. This effort is essential to mitigate the potential impacts of extreme weather and ensure that customs clearances remain safe and efficient.

Travelers, both domestic and international, are urged to stay informed about shifts in passenger flow and customs conditions at ports ahead of their journeys. It is also advised that travelers verify the validity of their entry and exit documents and visa endorsements prior to departure.

In the event of any complications during customs clearance, travelers have access to assistance via the National Immigration Service's service hotline at 12367 or can seek on-site help from the immigration control police present.