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Immigration Agencies Enhance Customs Clearance for Ching Ming Festival

During the Ching Ming Festival this year, an estimated 2.1 million individuals are expected to pass through the nation's ports each day, reflecting a significant rise of 21.4% compared to the previous year. Major international airports, including Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, Hangzhou Xiaoshan, and Chengdu Tianfu, are anticipated to experience a moderate increase in passenger numbers, with daily averages projected at 39,000, 81,000, 48,000, 12,000, and 16,000, respectively.

Additionally, land ports near Hong Kong and Macau are witnessing a substantial growth in traffic, particularly among residents of Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese returning home to honor their ancestors. The ports of Gongbei, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, Qingmao, and Hengqin are estimated to welcome daily averages of 367,000, 123,000, 114,000, and 95,000 visitors each, while Shenzhen's Luohu, Futian, Shenzhen Bay, Liantang, and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High Speed Rail West Kowloon Station are projected to receive 249,000, 228,000, 160,000, 112,000, and 105,000 passengers per day.

In response to the anticipated increase in traffic during this holiday, the State Administration of Immigration has implemented special measures to enhance border inspection at ports. Agencies across the nation have been instructed to intensify their monitoring of entry and exit movements as well as port operations. Timely publication of passenger flow information is being emphasized to assist travelers in planning their journeys.

Efforts will be taken to effectively manage the flow of visitors, especially at land ports connecting to Hong Kong and Macau, in addition to direct flight routes to Taiwan. The goal is to streamline customs clearance for those returning to pay their respects during the festival. Collaboration with local departments and port inspection units is crucial to guiding passenger traffic during peak times, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Travelers, both domestic and international, are urged by the State Administration of Immigration to stay informed about any changes to passenger flow and customs conditions leading up to their travels. It is recommended that they verify the validity of their entry and exit documents and visa endorsements prior to departure.

For those who may encounter challenges during customs procedures, assistance is readily available. The National Immigration Service has provided a dedicated hotline, 12367, for inquiries and support. Immigration control officers will also be present on-site to aid travelers as needed.