China Policy Update — 4 July 2026

policy • 4 July 2026

Greater China is experiencing a significant expansion in tourism infrastructure with numerous new hotel openings scheduled for the second half of 2026, particularly in major cities, transport hubs, and leisure destinations[1]. IHG Hotels & Resorts is leading this growth with a diversified portfolio spanning luxury, lifestyle, premium, and essential brands to meet varied travel needs across the region[1]. Key upcoming openings include the **InterContinental Shenzhen ICSZ** at the International Communication Center, **InterContinental Taipei**, and **Holiday Inn Shanghai NECC** near the National Exhibition and Convention Center[1]. Lifestyle and design-led properties are also emerging, such as **Atwell** in **Guangzhou Pazhou**, **Nanjing Xinjiekou**, and **Hangzhou Wulin**, alongside **Kimpton Nine Trees Shanghai** in the city's emerging cultural district[1]. Leisure destinations will see new additions like **Crowne Plaza Suzhou Taihu**, **Hotel Indigo** in **Jingdezhen** and **Quanzhou Ancient Town**, and the wellbeing-focused **EVEN Hotel Jingdezhen**[1]. Additionally, **Garner Hotels** will open in **Chongqing Jiefangbei** and **Wuxi Qingming Bridge**, while Hyatt has officially opened **Hyatt Place Jiaxing Nanhu**, its first property in Jiaxing[1][3]. The **Dali EDITION Hotel** has also recently opened in Yunnan, situated between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake[3]. These developments reflect a strategic push to enhance accommodation options for both domestic and international travellers, with IHG currently operating over 1,500 hotels across more than 200 cities in Greater China[1]. The new openings aim to provide flexible, efficient, and culturally immersive stays that connect with local heritage and evolving creative scenes[1]. For Australian travellers planning trips to China, these new hotels offer fresh, modern options in key tourist and business hubs, improving overall tourism infrastructure and visitor experience[1].

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