More than 6.1 million people passed through Shanghai customs last year, an all-time-high figure, according to latest customs statistics.
Shanghai is the only city in China that has two international airports, which had 36,000 landings and take-offs on routes linking Shanghai with cities in 96 countries and regions last year.
More than 4,000 overseas travelers who came to Shanghai via Pudong International Airport or Hongqiao International Airport have stayed in the city for less than 48 hours without a visa, since Shanghai began a 48 hour visa-free policy early last year.
The municipal customs inspection department also simplified the entry-exit formalities for those who travel to Shanghai to attend international conferences.