As of 29 April, those entering the country will be able to take a lateral flow test 48 hours before boarding their flight instead of a PCR test. 

According to an updated travel advisory from the UK Foreign Office, travellers must declare their negative test result by filling in the Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website, or through the China Customs App or WeChat account.

Airline officials will no longer check test results, but upon arrival in China, visitors’ test results may be checked by officials at customs.

Passengers entering China displaying symptoms of fever, or with an "abnormal" Health Declaration, may also be asked to undertake a rapid antigen test on arrival.

Those who test positive will be asked to wear a mask and may be advised to self-isolate whilst symptoms remain, although there is no mandatory self-isolation.

China reopened its borders to international visitors for the first time in January after three years of closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Commenting on the relaxation of the entry measures for China, Gary King, head of trade sales for Wendy Wu Tours, described the move as a "game changer" for China tourism.

"This news presents a golden opportunity for travellers who have been eagerly awaiting the chance to explore China’s rich history, culture and natural wonders," he added.

"Everything is open and functioning as normal, and what’s more, the key attractions and iconic sights, such as the magnificent Great Wall, are so quiet right now. We’ve seen a surge of interest since China reopened and so would encourage agents to really get behind China now, as the demand is clearly there."