Operator readies for China tours return despite testing fears

Last month, the country announced it would reopen its borders for the first time since the onset of Covid-19 on 8 January, which will see the destination end its mandatory quarantine policy.

Wendy Wu Tours said the milestone represents "the final and undoubtedly one of the most eagerly anticipated reopenings" for Asia tourism following the pandemic.

Having experienced one of its busiest booking periods for China enquiries since 2019 last week, the operator is now preparing to host its first set of group tours in more than three years.

This week alone saw the operator receive almost 120% more enquiries for the destination compared to the previous week, with nearly 75% of enquiries coming from agents. 

Despite the positive uptick, uncertainty remains after the UK reintroduced Covid testing for arrivals from China following similar moves by the US, Italy, Japan, Korea, Spain, Malaysia and India.

In response, the Chinese government threatened to impose reciprocal testing for arrivals from the west.

Cited by The Guardian speaking at a recent briefing, China’s foreign minister spokesperson Mao Ning said: "We are firmly opposed to attempts to manipulate the Covid measures for political purposes and will take countermeasures based on the principle of reciprocity."