China Policy Update — 16 September 2026

policy • 16 September 2026

China’s **tourism infrastructure** is expanding rapidly through new upscale hotel openings and major international-brand investment in key destinations such as Shenzhen, Wuxi and Xinjiang. Recent openings and pipeline projects suggest operators are targeting *business travel, waterfront leisure, heritage stays and ski tourism* rather than just adding standard room supply.[1][3][7][11] According to **MGM China** reports, **MGM Shenzhen Prince Bay** opened on **10 September 2026** with **298 rooms**, adding a new waterfront hotel in Shekou’s Nanshan District near the **Shekou Cruise Home Port**.[4][6] In **Wuxi**, Hilton has opened **Xi Zhe Wuxi, Curio Collection by Hilton**, which is the brand’s **first property in Jiangsu Province** and combines a historic residence with a newly built section.[7][11] In **Xinjiang**, **Global Times** reports that international hotel brands are moving into both urban and resort markets, with **Ritz-Carlton, Westin and InterContinental** projects under development in Urumqi, while **Conrad** and **Hilton** opened in **Hemu village** in 2025 and a **Hotel Indigo** is expected during the upcoming ski season.[1] The same report says Xinjiang received **323 million tourist visits in 2025**, with tourism spending of **370 billion yuan**, showing why hotel groups are accelerating new openings there.[1]

Sources