China has officially resumed group trips to Canada, marking a new chapter in diplomatic relations and tourism opportunities between the two countries

Posted on November 3, 2025

In a major shift in diplomatic relations, China officially resumed group flights to Canada after a long hiatus. This announcement represents a pivotal moment in the relationship between the two countries, after years of tension and a period of tense diplomatic relations. The resumption of travel comes just days after a historic meeting between the leaders of the two countries, signaling a new beginning in their bilateral relationship.

A new beginning for China-Canada relations

After nearly three years of exclusion from China’s list of approved mass tourism destinations, Canada has been welcomed back. While many countries have resumed tourism from China by early 2023, Canada has been noticeably left out. The decision to resume group tours now comes after careful consideration of the growing demand from Chinese travelers, as well as an assessment of the safety and viability of travel destinations.

This new chapter in China-Canada relations aims to enhance cultural exchanges, improve mutual understanding and enhance close relations between the peoples of the two countries. Before the pandemic, Chinese tourists were major economic contributors to Canada’s tourism sector, spending billions each year. The return of these travelers is expected to boost local economies, especially in cities such as Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, which were previously magnets for Chinese tourists.

Diplomatic engagement and renewed cooperation

This diplomatic upturn comes on the heels of a defining moment in relations between China and Canada. A major meeting between the Chinese leadership and the Canadian Prime Minister was recently held within the framework of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea, marking the first such interaction between the two countries in several years. The leaders expressed optimism about their bilateral relations and agreed that the time has come to resume cooperation in earnest.

During the meeting, the two sides recognized the need to make mutual efforts to stabilize and strengthen relations, especially through areas such as trade and tourism. Canada’s participation in international forums and its broader role on the global stage were highlighted as areas for deepening cooperation with China.

The path to normalization of relations

The road to rebuilding relations between China and Canada has been difficult, especially after the arrest of a Chinese business executive in Vancouver in 2018. In response, China detained Canadian citizens, leading to a long-lasting diplomatic crisis. The situation remained unresolved until 2021, when the parties reached a resolution that included the release of detained Canadians in exchange for executive authority.

This period of diplomatic tension, coupled with the global COVID-19 pandemic, means Canada has been excluded from group travel lists issued to China. This absence has had a direct impact on Canada’s tourism sector, which was heavily dependent on an influx of Chinese visitors before the pandemic. Now, with the resumption of group travel, Canada’s tourism industry is poised for a major rebound, especially with Chinese travelers returning to its shores.

Tourism is a major bridge to strengthen relations

Tourism has always been a vital component of international diplomacy, and the resumption of group tours is expected to enhance understanding between the peoples of China and Canada. The return of Chinese tourists will not only revive local businesses, but also promote cultural exchange, bringing the two countries closer together.

Canada’s tourism industry, which has been greatly affected by the exclusion of Chinese visitors, is expected to benefit greatly from the return of mass travel. These tourists contribute to more than just the hospitality and retail sectors; Their visits also enrich the cultural fabric of Canadian cities, enhancing global awareness and appreciation of Canada’s diverse heritage.

China’s expanded visa policy: a step towards greater openness

Alongside the return of group tours, China announced the expansion of its visa exemption policy to several countries, including France, which has been granted visa-free access until December 31, 2026. Sweden has also been added to the list, with visa-free entry granted to Swedish citizens from November 10, 2025.

These moves reflect China’s broader strategy to encourage international tourism and foster stronger relationships with key global partners. By easing travel restrictions and facilitating access to Chinese markets, China is positioning itself as a major player in the global tourism landscape, further strengthening its diplomatic influence and economic partnerships.

A bright future for tourism and relations

The resumption of group tours to Canada marks a turning point in China-Canada relations, not only providing a boost to Canada’s tourism sector, but also laying the foundation for further cooperation in trade, culture and diplomacy. Both countries look forward to building on this momentum, with a focus on strengthening close ties and facing challenges in a spirit of cooperation.

With tourism being a key pillar of this renewed relationship, both China and Canada are committed to ensuring that future exchanges are safe, enriching and beneficial for both parties. With the return of Chinese tourists to Canada, the stage is set for a brighter and more prosperous future in both tourism and broader bilateral relations.