China’s rapid economic expansion and global influence have made it an attractive hub for South Asian businesses. On a net basis, China has gained more billionaires than any other global region over the past decade, reaching 501 in 2024. These figures underline how China remains a key destination for businesses in South Asia, thanks to its robust infrastructure, competitive manufacturing sector, and dynamic consumer market.
Entrepreneurs from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are increasingly seeking to establish trade links, explore manufacturing opportunities, and expand their market reach in the world’s second-largest economy. The country’s pivotal role in global supply chains has also continued to draw a steady influx of South Asian investors looking to capitalise on cost-efficient production, advanced technology, and favourable trade agreements.
Celebrating strong ties
Recent reports have only highlighted this trend, with bilateral agreements strengthening economic ties. In India, China has strengthened its robust trading partnership, which gained momentum in 2023 when bilateral trade reached a record US$136.2 billion, reflecting a 1.5 per cent increase from the previous year. China remains India’s largest trading partner, with trade surpassing US$100 billion in the 2023–24 financial year. Key imports include electronics, machinery, and chemicals, while demand for Chinese technology and investment, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and telecommunications, continues to grow.
Pakistan also retains strong trade links with China, which is the South Asian nation’s largest trading partner and top import source. In 2024, bilateral trade rose to US$23.1 billion, up 11.1% from the previous year. China’s exports to Pakistan surged 17% to US$20.2 billion, although imports declined by 18.2% to US$2.8 billion.
In Bangladesh, China continues to be the largest trading partner and the second-largest source of foreign investment. This partnership has created over 550,000 jobs, significantly improving livelihoods. A notable recent development is the launch of direct flights between Beijing and Dhaka from Air China and China Southern Airlines, further enhancing connectivity and cooperation.
Despite the growing economic ties, securing visas for business travel to China can be a complex and time-consuming process for South Asian entrepreneurs. Lengthy application procedures, stringent eligibility criteria, and geopolitical tensions can create hurdles, delaying crucial business decisions and limiting market access.
The best passports you can get for visa-free travel to China
Many business owners are turning to second citizenship through investment programs to enjoy the freedom to travel to China, and beyond, without restrictive visa requirements, offering unparalleled advantages for their personal and professional growth and development.
In this regard, Grenada’s CBI programme stands out for offering visa-free access to China. Grenadian citizens can enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, facilitating travel for business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. This is in addition to visa-free travel to other countries, such as the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Schengen countries, as part of stress-free access to 145 nations. Grenada’s E-2 treaty with the United States also allows investors to live and operate a business in the U.S.—a highly valuable advantage for globally minded entrepreneurs.
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment programme also offers visa-free access to China—a rare and strategic benefit in the CBI world. This positions Dominica as one of the few nations outside of Asia with a direct travel agreement with China, allowing its passport holders to enter for up to 30 days without a visa. Combined with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Dominica’s passport is a powerful asset for globally mobile investors. Starting from a minimum investment of USD 200,000, it remains one of the most cost-effective and efficient CBI programs available today.
As of May 11, 2024, Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can now enjoy visa-free access to China thanks to a newly activated mutual visa exemption agreement between the two nations. This allows citizens to visit China for up to 30 days within a 90 day period.
This development strengthens the appeal of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programme, which offers a streamlined path to citizenship through real estate investments and contributions to approved funds. With a minimum cost of US$230,000, individuals now gain access to China and visa-free entry to over 150 countries, including the UK and the Schengen Area, making it a strategic option for investors seeking greater global mobility.
Although investment minimums were recently changed in June 2024 as part of the Caribbean nations’ concerted efforts to strengthen the integrity of their programmes, it continues to be among the most affordable and straightforward citizenship programmes available. This makes it a solid option for entrepreneurs and investors looking into getting a passport that exemplifies strong ties with China.
Meanwhile, China is expanding its visa-free policy globally. According to Euronews, citizens from 38 European countries, including Greece and Portugal, can now travel to China without a visa. This complements the growing popularity of EU-based residency and citizenship programmes, such as Greece and Portugal’s Golden Visa, which provide South Asian entrepreneurs with seamless access to European and international markets.
A strategic move for business growth
With China continuing to dominate the global economic stage, South Asian investors must adopt future-proof solutions to overcome logistical and regulatory barriers. A second passport has the dual benefit of simplifying entry into China and opening doors to a broader network of global opportunities. From securing international banking access to expanding business operations across multiple jurisdictions, the benefits of dual citizenship extend far beyond ease of travel.
Citizenship Invest offers expert guidance on securing a second passport tailored to your needs. Contact us today to discover how a second passport can help you navigate international markets with confidence and ease.
