China | Overview

Account for travel and business disruption over the coming weeks during the Lunar New Year (known as ‘Chun Jie’ in China, ‘Seollal’ in South Korea and ‘Tet’ in Vietnam) holiday period. The New Year falls on 17 February, with the main celebrations between 15 and 23 February. The travel period, with people mostly travelling to and from their hometowns, will last up to 13 March. Planned travel should factor in delays and congestion at transport hubs. Security measures will also be heightened at major transport hubs, Chinatown areas and tourist spots.

Japan’s Fisheries Agency on 12 February seized a Chinese fishing vessel and arrested its captain south-west of Nagasaki prefecture (Japan) after the vessel fled an inspection. This follows Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi’s 8 February landslide election victory, reinforcing her mandate and assertive foreign policy and defence agenda. As such, expect elevated bilateral tensions to persist in the coming months. Meanwhile, reduced flights between Japan and China continue amid reduced demand linked to a Chinese travel advisory. Major carriers have extended free refund periods until 24 October. Although personal security risks are unchanged, profile‑specific sensitivities remain heightened. Monitor developments closely.

Plan journeys accounting for intermittent travel disruption during the ongoing winter season, which will last until March. Heavy snow, dense fog and poor visibility can cause short-notice disruption to flights and rail services, as well as impede road movement. Additionally, heavy smog, typically caused by pollution from increased coal use during the winter months, can result in poor visibility and flight disruption. Adverse weather conditions can also impact power supplies, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas.