China has added Indonesia to its growing list of countries eligible for its 10-day visa-free transit programme, increasing the total number of beneficiaries to 55. The move underscores China’s efforts to strengthen regional integration, particularly with ASEAN nations. However, India remains notably absent from the list, highlighting ongoing diplomatic frictions between the two Asian powers.
Under the policy, travellers from select countries—including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, France, Australia, and now Indonesia—can enter China without a visa for up to 10 days while transiting to a third destination through designated ports. The initiative, spearheaded by China’s National Immigration Administration, is part of a broader strategy to promote global connectivity and economic cooperation.
While the inclusion of Indonesia signals a deepening of regional ties, especially within the ASEAN bloc, the continued exclusion of India reflects lingering tensions. Bilateral relations between India and China remain strained due to unresolved border disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), as well as strategic differences over China’s support for Pakistan and infrastructure projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which passes through contested territories in Kashmir.
Experts note that despite China’s push for openness, India’s omission from the visa-free scheme highlights a persistent lack of trust. Indian travellers and businesses have expressed disappointment over restricted access, particularly as demand for outbound travel rebounds post-pandemic. Until there is meaningful diplomatic progress on key issues, the gap in travel mobility between the two nations is expected to continue.
