China welcomes more foreign visitors as travel, shopping surge

China's commitment to high-quality development and high-standard opening-up has driven the growing popularity of traveling and shopping in the country among foreign visitors, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Tuesday.

Lin made the remarks after official data showed that 77.7 percent of foreign nationals entering China in the first half of the year benefited from visa-free entry. A growing number of European tourists have also traveled to China this summer to enjoy its cooler destinations and seasonal attractions.

More foreign visitors are exploring China firsthand and experiencing everyday life as local people do, he said.

Showrooms featuring new energy vehicles, pop-up stores showcasing homegrown brands and science and technology parks are joining natural landscapes and historic sites as popular destinations, he added.

Lin said the growing trend of overseas consumers buying Chinese products directly is also allowing more people around the world to appreciate the quality and creativity of Chinese design and manufacturing.

"I have also noted that several recent opinion polls reported by the media show that a China committed to peace and development, and full of innovative vitality and cultural appeal, is gaining increasing trust and recognition," Lin said.

China welcomes more foreign visitors to experience the country's vibrant appeal firsthand this summer, he added.