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China replaces mandatory PCR test requirement with antigen test for inbound travelers
Updated 18:38, 25-Apr-2023
CGTN
A border control officer helps an inbound passenger apply for visa-free entry procedures at Haikou Meilan International Airport in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, March 15, 2023. /CFP
A border control officer helps an inbound passenger apply for visa-free entry procedures at Haikou Meilan International Airport in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, March 15, 2023. /CFP

A border control officer helps an inbound passenger apply for visa-free entry procedures at Haikou Meilan International Airport in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, March 15, 2023. /CFP

As of April 29, all inbound travelers only need a negative antigen test result within 48 hours of flying rather than the previous mandatory PCR tests before boarding flights, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning at a daily press conference on Tuesday.

Immediately after the announcement, Chinese embassies in other countries issued updates to the latest epidemic prevention and control guidelines for travelers to China.

The notices also asked travelers bound for China to fill in the Health Declaration Form for Inbound and Outbound Travelers after getting their negative tests results.

Chinese customs officers will conduct sampling inspection in accordance with a certain percentage, the notices said, adding that travelers with abnormal health declarations or showing fever and other symptoms shall cooperate with the Customs in carrying out epidemiological investigation and medical investigation, and accept sampling and testing of related infectious disease. 

China will continue to optimize its prevention and control policies in light of the epidemic situation and better ensure safe, healthy and orderly exchanges between Chinese and foreign personnel, Mao said. 

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