Saturday, November 9, 2024 On October 14, China and Vietnam released a Joint Statement to declare the official launch of the China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall Cross-Border Tourism Cooperation Zone. The following day, on October 15, the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in China and the People’s Council of Cao Bằng Province in Vietnam came together to hold an inauguration ceremony celebrating the Cooperation Zone’s commencement. The Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall Cross-Border Tourism Cooperation Zone between China and Vietnam began its trial phase on September 15, 2023.
Through a managed approach involving group-only travel, set routes, restricted visiting hours, capped visitor numbers, and group-based entry and exit, tourists from both nations can explore the neighboring country. As of October 10, 2024, this zone has welcomed 1,232 cross-border tour groups from China and Vietnam, totaling 17,991 visitors. Once the zone enters full operation, the Daxin County Publicity Department aims to refine the cross-border travel framework further.
Firstly, they plan to increase the visitor cap, potentially raising the daily limit from 500 to 1,000 individuals per side. Adjustments will be made based on demand for these one-day cross-border visits. Secondly, operating hours are set to extend from 10:00 – 17:00 to 09:00 – 18:00 (Beijing time), providing groups with up to six hours instead of five to explore the area.
Thirdly, entry and exit procedures w.