ATAG predicted a twofold increase in the tourist flow from China to Russia due to the abolition of visas

The visa–free regime for Chinese citizens may lead to an increase in the tourist flow to Russia by 1.5-2 times. Alexander Bragin, director of the Association of Travel Aggregators (ATAG), told Izvestia about this on December 1.

"Russia's introduction of visa—free travel for Chinese citizens is welcome news for our tourism industry. Independent tourist flow from China to Russia may increase 1.5–2 times, taking into account business trips," he said.

According to Bragin, the increase in tourist traffic will have a positive impact on hotel occupancy, including in the off-season.

In addition, the expert spoke about the most popular tourist destinations for tourists from China. He noted that they are mainly attracted to megacities — Moscow, St. Petersburg. The border regions of Primorsky Krai and Amur Region are also popular.

In addition, Bragin added Novosibirsk to the list of popular destinations as a starting point for traveling along the Trans—Siberian Railway, the cities of the Golden Ring — Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, as well as natural attractions of Karelia, the Murmansk Region and Lake Baikal.

Beijing, while it's hot: Russians are buying tickets to China due to the introduction of visa-free travel

The average cost of a two-person tour for a week is 120-150 thousand rubles, depending on the destination

Earlier in the day, Maya Lomidze, executive Director of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), said that the tourist flow from China to Russia would increase by at least 30% due to the decision to cancel visas for tourists from the People's Republic of China (PRC).

On December 1, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on the temporary entry procedure for Chinese citizens to Russia. According to the document, by September 14, 2026, Chinese citizens will be able to enter Russia and stay on its territory without visas for up to 30 days, subject to the principle of reciprocity. Holders of ordinary Chinese passports are allowed to visit Russia for guest and business visits, for tourist and other purposes.

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