Southeast Asian countries have welcomed China’s relaxation of restrictions on international travel, saying it will inject impetus into the recovery of their tourism industries after a long hiatus triggered by the pandemic.

Countries including Cambodia, Indonesia and Singapore have since announced that they will not require COVID tests for travelers from China.

Meanwhile, countries including Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia said preparations are underway to welcome back Chinese visitors with campaigns ready to promote their countries on the Chinese mainland.

Tourism officials and local business owners say Chinese visitors are important to their countries and businesses.

"Chinese tourists are very important to Thailand. All of Thailand's travel agencies, hotels and attractions are preparing. Thailand is ready, and our association will do our best to help host Chinese tourist groups," said Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents. "There were fewer customers during the pandemic. I miss Chinese tourists a lot," said an owner of a food stall.

Thong Khon, Cambodian minister of tourism, said that Cambodia will always welcome Chinese people, Chinese tourists and Chinese investors.

"I think it is not only good for Cambodia that China has resumed outbound tourism, but it also greatly benefits the global tourism industry. For Cambodia, we welcome Chinese tourists very much. Cambodia will always welcome Chinese people, Chinese tourists and Chinese investors," said Thong Khon.