Even Amid US-China Conflict, Business Continues... Rapid Entry Program Introduced for US Entrepreneurs

AmCham China "Aiming to Implement Fast Track Early Next Year" in Talks with Chinese Authorities
Welcoming as It Will Benefit US Businesspeople in Trade and Economy...

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Amid the rapid cooling of US-China relations following the diplomatic boycott declaration of the Beijing Winter Olympics, the United States and China are expanding exchanges among businesspeople. Although the two countries are experiencing sharp political conflicts, this move is interpreted as a willingness to coexist in economic sectors such as trade.

Photo by Global Times capture

According to the state-run Global Times on the 9th, the American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham China) is pushing to implement a fast-track program starting early next year with approval from Chinese diplomatic authorities.

AmCham China stated that it is consulting with various provincial governments to finalize the details of invitation letters and visas, aiming to apply this program early next year.

The fast-track program involves applying for a visa by attaching an invitation letter received from a Chinese company inviting the applicant to China. If the requirements are met, visa issuance time is shortened to within 10 days. Additionally, some quarantine and other epidemic prevention conditions are relaxed.

The Global Times explained that the purpose of the fast-track program agreement is to provide a more efficient and predictable channel for American businesspeople and their families to enter China.

AmCham China said, "Visa and entry procedures have been the top priority issues for our member companies," adding, "We are cooperating with the US-China Business Council (USCBC) to ease difficulties for businesspeople entering China."

AmCham China further added that AmCham China and USCBC member companies, as well as American companies holding Chinese business licenses, are eligible for the fast-track program.

US courier company FedEx welcomed the US-China fast-track program, stating, "If business personnel from the US and China can travel normally despite the epidemic situation, it will help promote economic and trade relations between the two countries."

Chinese Ambassador to the US Qin Gang stated at a seminar hosted by USCBC earlier this month that the time required for American businesspeople to enter China will be shortened to within 10 days, and China will strive to allow businesspeople to work even during quarantine periods.

The businesspeople fast-track program was discussed during the virtual summit between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping last month.

Meanwhile, the Global Times cited data from the General Administration of Customs, reporting that China's export value in November reached $325.53 billion, a 22.0% increase compared to the same month last year. It also added that the total trade volume between China and the US reached $72 billion, making the US one of China's top three trading partners.