What is the APEC Business Travel Card?

The APEC Business Travel Card is a multilateral visa facilitation policy launched by APEC to boost trade and investment facilitation in the Asia-Pacific region. Applicants only need to submit one application for a five-year valid card that allows multiple entries, with a minimum stay of 60 days for each entry. All economies generally provide entry and exit customs clearance  conveniences for cardholders.

How many APEC economies can Chinese cardholders enter and exit with a valid APEC Business Travel Card at most?

At present, the United States and Canada do not process foreign applications for the card. The card is not applicable between the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan, so Chinese cardholders can enter up to 16 economies with a valid card.

What activities can the APEC Business Travel Card be used for?

In principle, it is intended for international business travel only and not for non-business purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or medical treatment. However, Australia, Thailand, South Korea and Papua New Guinea also allow the card to be used for certain non-business travel.

How can enterprises apply for the APEC Business Travel Card for their employees? 

Enterprises should submit applications to the foreign affairs offices of the local governments where they are registered (for example, companies registered in Shenzhen apply to the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government). After initial review, rechecks and final approvals, obtaining clearances from the relevant APEC economies typically takes 2–3 months. The card is valid for five years. Enterprises and residents in Futian District can also consult the "Futian District Enterprise Going Global Service Platform" for assistance. 

How does the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) influence enterprise development?

It submits policy recommendations to shape trade and investment rules, organizes matchmaking events, reflects the pain points of enterprises, and drives policy optimization to align with enterprise needs.

What benefits does trade and investment liberalization bring to cross-border enterprises?

It reduces tariff and non-tariff barriers, simplifies customs clearance procedures, promotes the unification of investment rules, and realizes the mutual recognition of industrial standards in certain sectors.

How can small and medium-sized enterprises expand their cross-border businesses through APEC?

They can participate in APEC-related matchmaking events, technology exhibitions and other activities, and fully leverage the conveniences of the Business Travel Card.

What impact do cross-border data flow rules have on science and technology enterprises?

These rules establish a "safe harbor" mechanism, clarify compliance standards, strengthen data privacy protection, and urge enterprises to improve their governance capabilities.

What supportive measures does APEC offer to cross-border e-commerce enterprises?

It promotes customs clearance facilitation, establishes a system for mutual recognition of standards, expands tax incentives, builds innovation platforms, and reduces the operational costs of enterprises.

How can foreign-invested enterprises seek cooperation opportunities through the APEC meeting?

They can participate in official business events to connect with resources, obtain cooperation information through designated channels, and explore the establishment of regional headquarters or R&D centers.

What guiding role does APEC green trade cooperation play for foreign trade enterprises?

Green products are entitled to customs clearance conveniences and tariff preferences. APEC also promotes the mutual recognition of green product certifications and encourages enterprises to participate in the construction of green supply chains.

As a priority area of APEC, how does supply chain connectivity help enterprises reduce risks?

It establishes risk early warning mechanisms, improves logistics efficiency, promotes information sharing, and supports the development of diversified supply chain systems.

How can enterprises enhance their international brand influence through APEC?

They can participate in themed exhibitions and forums, conduct publicity through official media, join APEC affiliated institutions, and build brand influence in their respective industries.

What optimized measures are available for cross-border financial services during the APEC meeting?

Green channels for cross-border settlement are launched, special service windows are set up, financing quotas are expanded, and cross-border payment services are promoted.

What safeguards does APEC intellectual property cooperation provide for innovative enterprises?

It promotes the mutual recognition of intellectual property rules, strengthens law enforcement cooperation, improves dispute resolution mechanisms, and encourages enterprises to participate in the formulation of relevant standards.

How can traditional manufacturing enterprises achieve transformation and upgrading through APEC?

They can learn advanced technological experience, introduce low-carbon technologies, integrate into high-end supply chains, and attract high-end talents through personnel exchange programs under APEC.

How can enterprises maintain cooperation channels with the Asia-Pacific region after the APEC meeting?

They can establish long-term matchmaking mechanisms, retain online cooperation platforms, set up cooperation alliances, and rely on the follow-up policy support of the government for guarantee.

What convenient channels are there for micro and small enterprises to participate in APEC business activities?

They can join group applications organized by industry associations, obtain guidance through service centers, participate in trade fairs and online activities, and apply for special support funds.

What opportunities does APEC‘s service trade liberalization bring to modern service enterprises?

It expands market access, promotes the mutual recognition of service standards, builds cooperation platforms, and encourages the innovation of new models and formats for cross-border services.

Are only large enterprises eligible to participate in APEC business activities?

No. The meeting reserves exclusive quotas for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, and provides subsidies and supporting services to ensure their equal participation.