Chinese authorities have been discussing the possibility of reviving the business travel of Japanese travelers. China suggested that it would allow select individuals to enter the country after they undergo testing and generate negative results and other precautionary measures before entry.
According to Nikkei Asian Review, China agreed to allow the entry of Japanese business travelers. These travelers must abide by the mandatory protocols to prevent the spread of the pandemic in both jurisdictions. China, regarding South Korean business travelers, observed the same approach. According to the Chinese foreign ministry, the country is also currently under negotiations with Singapore to allow the entry of Singaporean business travelers as well.
Earlier this month, China and South Korea agreed to ease their travel restrictions. China would allow entry to cities such as Chongqing, Tianjin, and Shanghai for South Korean business travelers. The allowance is required passengers to pass a mandatory health screening that includes a PCR test.
These countries have also been seeking to impose less restrictive travel measures to boost economic activity in their respective territories. South Korean business travelers, for example, would need to pass an exam at a designated medical institution for not more than 72 hours before they are to depart from airports. They must also secure a certificate that alleges they have generated a negative result from COVID-19 tests. After their visit, the South Korean business travelers would have to undergo another PCR test. They must be found negative before they would be allowed to depart.
At present, Chinese diplomats continue to negotiate the terms and communicate their willingness to accept entry into China with other Asia-Pacific leaders. The measure would only be applied to travelers whose travels are considered essential for business.
There exist roadblocks for Japanese travelers since it is challenging for a PCR test to be approved, especially if the person does not show any symptoms of the virus. Japan's state of emergency also remains in force until the end of the month. However, the report claimed that the restrictions associated with the mandate may be relaxed before the conditions are to improve.
At present, Japan is focusing on measures to help prevent the spread of the virus internally. Its government officials believe that it is still too early to lift overseas travel restrictions. The country still prevents its residents from going to the office, school, and even limit visits to stores to stock up on their supplies.
Other countries, on the other hand, have started easing their entry restrictions. They are optimistic about getting tourists and business travelers to visit their country. These include Turkey and Tokyo. According to the report, Turkey might reopen international tourist travel this June, starting with travelers from Asia. Moreover, Turkish Airways also wants to revamp 22 international flights, including those en route to Tokyo's Haneda.
