Croatians to enjoy visa-free travel to China

China has expanded its recently introduced visa-free travel scheme for the citizens of Croatia and eight other countries, including Japan, Romania and Malta. 

Starting on Saturday, citizens of a total of 38 countries can now enjoy relaxed travel rules to China that allows them to stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa. 

This move aims at enhancing not just the people-to-people exchange, but also bilateral relations. 

Croatian capital Zagreb is one of the top tourist destinations in the region that attracts hundreds of thousands from all around the world with the hot summer a popular time for tourists.

But when the weather is cold and rainy, like November this year, most of the tourist agencies enter a slower season. 

But their luck is most likely about to change with the local tourist agencies optimistic over tours to China after the introduction of a visa-free regime for Croatia's citizens. 

It is also something we heard in one of the biggest tourist agencies in Zagreb, as Croatians search for interesting and exotic destinations at a bargain. 

Big potential for China and Croatia

With the introduction of visa-free travel, tours to China are set to become more attractive, potentially drawing thousands of new visitors from Croatia.

Gabrijela Koščica, a CEO of Idea Travel told CGTN Europe: "It would be much easier for our customers just to go without a China visa. 

"We do expect a lot of new destinations in China, and more cities to visit from Croatia. And also, there will be a part of people that want to visit China and expand their businesses."

Business people are also pleased about the move, as it would allow them far easier personal contacts; key to any business deal. But the analysts warn the situation in that area is not as clear as in the tourism sector.

Local journalist Boris Rašeta points out at the influence that comes from beyond the Croatia's borders.

"Unused opportunities in the economic cooperation of the two countries are actually very big," he said. "The policies of the current government, however, are very subordinated to the goals imposed by Washington and Brussels, and they perceive China as a competitor. 

"So for private companies this will be a great opportunity, while for state-owned companies it would depend upon the state policy."

This visa-free travel program will last until the end of 2025. It will give plenty of time for all parties to access its benefits, which should go beyond just tourism.