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2008-07-25 | All chapters

European chamber voices concern over tightened China business visas
Xinhua, 24th July 2008
 
BEIJING (XFN-ASIA) - The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China said it is concerned about a further tightening of restrictions on business visas to Shanghai.

The chamber said in a statement that the introduction of restrictions without warning creates "serious problems" for companies operating in China.

The chamber noted a posting on the website of the Shanghai Foreign Economic Relation and Trade Commission, saying that the granting of visas for business visits to Shanghai will be suspended until mid-September in order to "ensure a stable, harmonious society during the period of the Olympics."

It added that the chamber is seeking official confirmation that similar restrictions apply in Beijing and other Olympic cities as widely reported in the international and domestic media.

The chamber said it is seeking clarification from central and local Chinese authorities on these new restrictions, how they will work in practice and how long they can be expected to remain in force.

China has been tightening its restrictions on visas for foreign visitors, including business travellers, as part of a security drive ahead of the Olympics.

Some businesses have complained that further delays could affect factory shipments aimed at the Christmas season and that orders may have to be placed elsewhere.
 
Source: http://www.quamnet.com/newscontent.action?articleId=902586