Britons planning a holiday in China have been issued fresh travel advice, as new information has been provided on medical screening for entry, terrorism and violence.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) gave Britons guidance to ensure they can enjoy a safe, well-informed trip.
Medical screening on entry into China
The FCDO stated: “You may need to pass through medical screening on entry into China. This may be body temperature scanning, or more rarely testing such as throat or nasal swabs or medical examinations.
“Recent changes to China’s ‘Frontier Health and Quarantine Laws’ means you may be refused entry into China if you do not comply with the screening measures.”
For further information on entry requirements for visiting China, British holidaymakers should consult the FCDO’s up-to-date guidance.
‘You may need to pass through medical screening on entry into China’
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Terrorism
Britons were told: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
For information and advice on staying safe abroad, plus what to do in the event of a terrorist attack, Britons can consult UK Counter Terrorism Policing. The FCDO has guidance on how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Regarding the specific threat from terrorism in China, attacks “cannot be ruled out”.
The FCDO stated: “Although foreigners have not been specifically targeted, attacks may happen in places visited by foreigners.
“Take particular care during national holidays and at public transport hubs, and always follow the advice of the local authorities.”
Risks under Chinese national security laws
The FCDO stated: “Chinese national security laws have broad scope and you can be arrested without having intended to break the law.”
Holidaymakers were advised to read the ‘Laws and cultural differences’ section on the FCDO’s website.
Violent attacks
The latest FCDO information on crime reads: “Serious crime against foreign nationals is relatively rare, but incidents can happen. Take care of your belongings at major tourist sites and other busy places, particularly where foreign nationals gather.
“Indiscriminate attacks using vehicles as a weapon, and knife attacks, have occurred in public places including at schools, supermarkets and hospitals. Although rare, there have been isolated violent attacks that have impacted foreign nationals.
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Drink spiking and assault
Britons were advised: “Do not leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers. Personal attacks and sexual assaults are rare, but they can happen, including through drinks being spiked. Women, travelling alone or with female friends, could be at higher risk.”
Scams
The FCDO warned: “Beware of scams in popular tourist areas. A common example is the ‘tea tasting’ or ‘massage’ scam. Friendly strangers may invite you to visit a bar, drink tea or have a massage, and the establishment then demands a large fee. This can be followed by threats, violence or credit card fraud.
“Inspect the QR code stickers on rental bicycles carefully before using them. The legitimate barcode can be replaced with a false code, which redirects money to a different account.”
Commercial disputes
The FCDO said: “Before entering a commercial contract in China, take legal advice, both in the UK and in China. Contracts agreed in the UK are not always recognised by Chinese courts.
“If you’re involved in or connected to a business or civil dispute, the Chinese authorities may impose an exit ban, which means you cannot leave China until the matter is resolved. British nationals have been detained against their will, intimidated and forced to pay money.
“Violence is rare, but it can be threatened. Report any threats of violence to the Chinese police.”
Before going to China, Britons should consult the FCDO for the latest information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks, health and getting help.
Holidaymakers should always check the FCDO’s up-to-date advice for their chosen country when they go abroad. Britons were recently given a travel warning for Thailand, Vietnam and more over the methanol poisoning danger.
