Wenzhou is ramping up efforts to facilitate the application process for APEC business travel cards across 16 economies, aiming for a seamless paperless application system.
Driven by the city's robust foreign trade enterprises, demand for overseas ventures has surged. Since January, Wenzhou has processed 131 batches totaling 247 individuals for APEC business travel cards, issuing cards to 201 batches comprising 416 individuals. The card enables multiple trips over the course of five years to 16 economies, including Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore.
Responding to the municipal government's goal of creating an optimal business environment, the Wenzhou foreign affairs office has introduced measures to enhance support for enterprises, including optimizing the APEC business travel card application process and simplifying procedures for inviting foreigners to China, with a focus on improving efficiency and service quality. These reforms aim to encourage more local enterprises to expand abroad.
Eligibility criteria for APEC business travel cards have been expanded to include businesses beyond manufacturing and trade, such as those in the finance and network technology sectors. Services have been enhanced with the introduction of a green channel for expedited visa collection.
Wenzhou has also eliminated the need for paper documentation in APEC business travel card applications and streamlined documentation requirements for inviting foreigners to China. This includes transitioning from a three-tier to a single-tier approval process.
Additionally, the Wenzhou foreign affairs office has enhanced its "warm business" service window, offering door-to-door handling, extended hours, and one-stop services to enhance enterprise satisfaction.
