With the latest visa-free policies now in effect, travel from Ireland to China has become significantly easier for Irish and European citizens. From March 14, 2024, to December 31, 2025, China has implemented a unilateral visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from twelve countries, including Ireland. The Ireland Sino Institute has launched a six-day tour of Liaoning Province to take full advantage of these new policies, providing a seamless travel experience for Irish and other European travelers eager to explore China without the hassle of obtaining a visa. Aerial-View-of-Shenyang-Imperial-Palace Great Wall of China Hushan Section Explore China with the Ireland Sino Institute China Has It All: History, Culture, Food, Beauty, Music, Safe Streets, Affordable Living, Openness, Opportunity, and Hospitality. Here are more details about the tour designed by the Ireland Sino Institute to promote Ireland-China exchanges. Day 1 – Shenyang: The City of Dreams and Vibrant Themes Upon your arrival at Shenyang Taoxian International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our knowledgeable experts ready to assist you. They will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you can take some time to settle in. This will be a good opportunity to familiarize yourself with the upcoming itinerary at your own pace. After acquainting yourself with what lies ahead, you can indulge in some much-needed rest to rejuvenate for the exciting journey that awaits. Aerial View of Shenyang Imperial Palace Day 2 – The Shenyang Love Affair: Imperial Palace and Imperial Tombs Shenyang Imperial Palace: Our expert will guide you through a journey, showcasing the grandeur of ancient China. Witness the ornate Dazheng Hall and Phoenix Tower, immersing you in a historical voyage. Shenyang Zhaoling Mausoleum: Explore this UNESCO site nestled in Beiling Park, offering a peaceful glimpse into the Qing Dynasty’s past. Fuling Tomb: Discover the legacy of Nurhachi with our knowledgeable guide. This UNESCO site offers a deep dive into the Qing Dynasty’s origins. China Language And Cultural Immersion at the Ireland Sino institute Day 3 – Ireland Sino Institute Chinese Language and Cultural Immersion Travel by high-speed train to Tieling, diving into Chinese culture at the Ireland Sino Institute. Learn basic Chinese with native experts and immerse in the local lifestyle through real-world interactions. Experience a harmonious blend of cultures with traditional Chinese music and a glass of Guinness. Explore the artistry of tea brewing in a Chinese tea ceremony at the Ireland Sino Institute. Moxibustion at the Ireland Sino Institute Day 4 – Ireland Sino Institute Traditional Chinese Medicine Escape Moxibustion Treatment: Experience holistic healing guided by experts using ancient techniques. Chinese Fire Cupping Therapy: Enhance your energy flow with therapeutic fire cupping therapy. Acupuncture: Achieve holistic well-being with world-class acupuncture in a tranquil atmosphere. Great Wall of China Hushan Section Day 5 – Whispers from the Wall: Exploring the Hushan Section of the Great Wall of China Journey from Tieling to Hushan and explore the Hushan Great Wall’s majestic paths with our expert. Visit the Great Wall History Museum for strategic tales of Hushan’s section. Walk the Yalu River Broken Bridge, symbolizing resilience and history. Guangyou Temple Liaoyang Day 6 – Eternal Echoes of the Orient: Lush Lands of Liaoyang Guangyou Temple: Explore this ancient Buddhist sanctuary with our experts. Baita Park: Climb the White Pagoda for stunning views and discover cultural gems amidst natural beauty. Liaoyang Museum: Explore a treasure trove of artifacts with expert guidance. The Ireland Sino Institute, a non-profit organization headquartered in Liaoning Province, China, has been fostering Ireland-China relations since 2012 through various initiatives. Their team, which includes both Irish and Chinese experts, ensures visitors enjoy a great experience. Their website also has a section on the Latest Ireland China News and Updates. Six Memorable Days in Northeast China Lorem Ipsum is simply dumy text of the printing typesetting industry lorem ipsum.

On February 18, 2025, Governor of Liaoning province Wang Xinwei appointed Pat McCarthy as an Investment Ambassador for Shenyang, recognizing his and his team’s significant contributions to strengthening bilateral ties between Ireland and Liaoning. These efforts have particularly enhanced cooperation in investment, trade, education, and tourism between Ireland and China. Our team is committed to driving millions of euro in investment into Shenyang. Pat McCarthy About Shenyang Shenyang was recently designated as an International Central City in Northeast Asia. Recognized as both a National Historical and Cultural City and an International Comprehensive Transportation Hub, Shenyang covers an area of 12,860 km² and is home to approximately 9.2 million residents. Its administrative divisions include 10 districts and 2 counties, earning the city its status as a State-Classified Megacity. Rich in cultural heritage and historical significance, Shenyang boasts over 1,500 historical and cultural landmarks, including three UNESCO World Heritage sites, most notably the iconic Shenyang Imperial Palace. This vibrant historical landscape contributes to the city’s recognition as China’s Happiest City, a title it has proudly maintained for three consecutive years. In addition to its cultural prominence, Shenyang is a vital hub for equipment manufacturing, leading significant developments in automotive manufacturing, aviation, and high-end equipment production. Shenyang: Integrating Trade, Manufacturing, and Logistics for Global Competitiveness The city of Shenyang has emerged as a prominent investment destination, driven by strategic developments such as the Shenyang Area of the China (Liaoning) Pilot Free Trade Zone—commonly referred to as Shenyang’s National Free Trade Zone. Established under China’s national strategy to promote trade liberalization and economic openness, this zone provides substantial tax incentives, streamlined customs processes, and simplified regulatory procedures, significantly enhancing the ease of doing business and reducing operational costs for enterprises. Complementing the Free Trade Zone, the Shenyang Comprehensive Bonded Zone specifically caters to production, assembly, manufacturing, and logistics operations. Businesses operating within the Bonded Zone benefit from additional customs duty exemptions, deferred taxes, and advanced warehousing facilities, making it ideal for enterprises engaged in global supply-chain activities. For example, a European automotive-parts manufacturer might initially establish its Asian headquarters or trading office in Shenyang’s Free Trade Zone to leverage its investment incentives, simplified business registration, and favorable administrative environment. The company could then import raw materials directly into the adjacent Comprehensive Bonded Zone for assembly, benefiting from duty-free or deferred-duty arrangements during production. Once assembly is completed, finished products can be quickly and efficiently exported to Europe or Central Asia via the nearby China-Europe Railway Express Assembly Centre. This integrated system positions Shenyang as an attractive investment hub, offering enterprises a comprehensive, cost-effective, and seamless solution for global supply-chain management. Shenyang: A National Hub of Higher Education and Technological Innovation Shenyang plays a critical role in China’s innovation landscape, distinguished by its extensive academic and research infrastructure. As home to 45 institutions of higher learning and 79 national-level innovation platforms, the city serves as an intellectual powerhouse, fostering significant scientific and technological advancements. This rich concentration of universities and institutes provides companies in Shenyang unparalleled access to highly skilled talent, cutting-edge research, and opportunities for collaboration. Moreover, Shenyang has been officially recognized as one of China’s 15 key sources of scientific and technological innovation, highlighting its strategic importance to the national innovation agenda. This status attracts substantial government investment and policy support, further enabling local and international businesses to innovate and rapidly commercialize technologies. For enterprises establishing operations in Shenyang, this environment not only accelerates research and development processes but also enhances their competitive position within global markets, particularly in advanced manufacturing, electronics, automotive technology, and emerging high-tech industries. Shenyang will continue to build itself into a premier national hub by enhancing its business environment, streamlining administrative processes, and providing efficient, high-quality services to attract and support foreign investment and technological innovation. Pat McCarthy Shenyang’s Vision 2030: Enhancing International Public Services and Communities For more news on the Irish community in China, visit Ireland-China News. If you are interested in Ireland-China investment opportunities in Shenyang, explore our services at Ireland-China Focus. For inquiries, connect with the Ireland Sino Institute.Shenyang will strengthen its provision of international public services by improving the quality of care at nine international hospitals and enhancing educational standards at six international schools. By 2030, the city plans to establish twelve modern international communities equipped with comprehensive facilities and amenities.  Free Trade Zone offering tax incentives and simplified customs Comprehensive Bonded Zone for duty-free production and logistics 45 universities and 79 innovation platforms driving technology 2030 plan: hospitals, schools, modern international communities

In an era of resurgent protectionism and volatile trade relations, marked by the escalating impact of Trump-era tariffs, China is delivering a clear, confident message to the global business community: its doors are opening even wider — and the world is welcome. That message comes to life from June 15th to June 21st, 2025, at what is widely considered China’s most significant international business event of 2025 — the China Business Connection Programme, featuring the Global Sourcing & Investment Summit (GSIS) and exclusive Dalian Business Engagements. Register Now For The Global Sourcing And Investment Summit June 2025 Taking place across strategic economic zones — Beijing, Langfang, Tianjin, and Dalian — and hosted by China’s most influential commercial institutions, including the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM), the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), and the Dalian Commerce Bureau, the summit isn’t just about connecting people — it’s about redefining global trade dynamics. As global commerce undergoes a strategic realignment, with companies worldwide seeking reliable, scalable, and politically stable trade partners, GSIS 2025 offers a timely and compelling solution: engage directly with China, the world’s most advanced and adaptive manufacturing and innovation powerhouse. GSIS June 2025: Event Details & Itinerary For Irish and European firms facing a potential €6 billion loss in transatlantic trade, this is more than an invitation — it’s a lifeline. China offers not just a market, but a partnership model rooted in opportunity, policy alignment, and long-term growth. From personalized matchmaking with top-tier Chinese suppliers to high-level government engagements, GSIS 2025 is a gateway to resilience, expansion, and strategic positioning in an increasingly multipolar economic world. For forward-looking business leaders, the message is unmistakable: don’t get caught between global tensions — get ahead of them. Look east. Look to China. Why Attend the Global Sourcing and investment summit june 2025 Connecting with Chinese suppliers and businesspeople means accessing new industries, building on core and distinctive competencies, and uncovering niche opportunities—helping businesses diversify and stay competitive amid global uncertainty. Engaging with government officials provides insights into regulations, potential incentives, and strengthens trust—both by reassuring foreign businesses and enhancing the credibility of local suppliers. HOSTS AND ORGANISERS The Global Sourcing and Investment Summit, taking place in June 2025, is hosted by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), and the Dalian Commerce Bureau.The event is co-organized by Zatino Group and promoted by the Ireland Sino Institute. For any questions or queries regarding this event, please email: hxie@zatino.ie or visit the Zatino Contact Page. For the latest on Ireland–China news and events, please visit the Ireland China News page. Matchmaking with top Chinese suppliers and business leaders High-level government engagements offering insights and incentives Access to China’s advanced manufacturing and innovation powerhouse Diversification opportunities amid global trade tensions

From May 14th to May 22nd, 2025, 33 European tourism experts were invited to participate in a familiarization (FAM) tour of Guizhou Province and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The delegation included travel professionals from Ireland, the United Kingdom, Finland, and Norway. This tour was sponsored by the China National Tourist Office (CNTO) London, the overseas office of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China. Pat McCarthy noted that he and his team have been inundated with enquiries about travel to Guizhou and Guangxi after posting a vlog about the tour on various social media platforms. He also mentioned that:   Such exchanges promote mutual understanding, shared development, and collaboration between tourism experts in Europe and China. Pat McCarthy, Chair of the Ireland Sino Institute Why are Guizhou and Guangxi generating so much buzz among European tourists? Pat McCarthy’s vlog holds the answer, and he’s made it even easier to access by sharing the key moments here. Virtual Preview of Guizhou-Guangxi FAM Tour May 2025 Director Zhang Li of the China National Tourist Office, London (the Overseas Office of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China) leads a delegation of 33 European tourism experts on a high-level tour of Guizhou and Guangxi. Pat McCarthy, representing the Ireland Sino Institute and the Ireland China Cultural and Tourism Association, joins the delegation. Guizhou Tour Day 1 This segment features unforgettable highlights from the Irish Delegation’s visit to the breathtaking Baling River Bridge and the majestic Huangguoshu Waterfall — the largest waterfall in all of Asia. A true showcase of Guizhou’s natural wonders that left the European Delegation in awe. Guizhou Tour Day 2 The Irish delegates traveled to the stunning Langde Miao Village in Leishan County, Guizhou, where they were greeted with a traditional mi jiu (rice wine) ceremony and treated to a vibrant Miao dance performance that brought the culture to life. Later in the day, the group journeyed to Rongjiang, where an unexpected surprise awaited — an invitation to experience the energy and excitement of a Village Super League match. It was a truly memorable moment of joyful cultural exchange, leaving lasting memories of connection, celebration, and fun. Guizhou Tour Day 3 The Irish Delegation visited the Basha Miao Village in Congjiang, a culturally rich community where the Miao people are uniquely permitted to legally carry firearms — a rare exception granted due to the area’s status within the Qiandongnan Autonomous Prefecture. Later, the group continued on to the picturesque Zhaoxing Dong Village, where they received a heartfelt welcome and were treated to a mesmerizing performance of the Dong Grand Chorus, a UNESCO-recognized tradition that left a lasting impression on all. Guizhou Tour Day 4 The Irish Delegation visited Daqikong and Xiaoqikong. Both are located within a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The group also experienced the pristine waters of Yuanyang Lake and the awe-inspiring Cuigu Waterfall, surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.  A visit to Libo Ancient Town added a rich cultural dimension to the day. Delegates dressed in traditional attire, took part in interactive cultural activities, and enjoyed captivating live performances, making it a truly immersive experience. Guizhou Tour Day 5 On behalf of the Ireland China Culture and Tourism Association, Pat McCarthy was honored to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focused on strengthening tourism cooperation between Ireland, Europe, and Guizhou Province. Pat McCarthy extends his sincere gratitude to Jing Farrelly from Zatino Group, the Guizhou authorities, and CNTO London, the Overseas Office of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China, for their invaluable support and collaboration in making this initiative possible. Guangxi Tour Day 1 The day began with captivating cultural performances in Baiku Yao Village, Nandan, Guangxi, featuring a traditional ceremonial firing ritual that offered a powerful glimpse into local heritage. The Irish delegation then explored the Dongtian Shengjing Scenic Area, where they experienced the refreshing beauty of a naturally cool and colorful cave — a true highlight of the region’s karst landscape. This was followed by a visit to the Dongtian Wine Cave, recognized as China’s largest underground wine storage facility, where participants had the opportunity to sample a selection of rich and flavorful local wines. The day wrapped up with striking views of Nandan’s scenic landscapes, offering a memorable glimpse into Guangxi’s natural allure. Guangxi Tour Day 2 Welcome to Bama – the Land of Longevity.  On Day 2 of the Guangxi tour, the Irish Delegation explored the region’s legendary longevity caves, notably Bainiao and Baimo. Baimo Cave is especially renowned for its high concentrations of negative oxygen ions and strong geomagnetic properties, creating an environment believed to offer revitalizing effects. They journeyed by boat and on foot through these spectacular natural wonders, admired for their expansive chambers, dramatic karst formations, and the soothing sounds of subterranean springs. Renowned for its pristine environment, Bama is famous not only for its caves but also for its exceptionally pure mineral water, often attributed to the area’s remarkable number of centenarians. Delegates had the opportunity to breathe in the clean, oxygen-rich “longevity air”, and sample the health-boosting Bama water, long believed to contribute to vitality and well-being. The experience was further enriched by soulful traditional songs performed by Andy, our local expert tour guide , celebrating themes of harmony, health, and long life. It was a truly remarkable cultural encounter in one of China’s most unique and life-affirming destinations. Welcome to Bama – Health, Happiness, and Longevity Pat McCarthy, Chair of the Ireland Sino Institute Let Guizhou and Guangxi Transform You Experience the wonders of Guizhou and Guangxi—breathe the famed longevity air, drink pure longevity water, and rejuvenate your body amidst breathtaking landscapes. To begin your journey, contact Zatino Group or the Ireland Sino Institute. About the Ireland Sino Institute The Ireland Sino Institute is a non-profit and non-political organization headquartered in China, officially registered with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of the People’s Republic of China. It also has branch offices in Europe.Its mission is to foster meaningful connections between Ireland, Europe, and China through a wide range of initiatives spanning education, tourism, philanthropy, culture, and business.Since 2012, through its educational and philanthropic programs, the Institute has provided learning opportunities to over 25,000 children in rural China. Its contributions have been formally recognized by the State Council of China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the current Prime Minister of Ireland, Micheál Martin.Pat McCarthy, Chair of the Institute, has served as an expert commentator on CGTN, providing coverage of Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi’s visit to Ireland in February 2025, and has been appointed Shenyang Investment and Tourism Officer by the Liaoning Provincial Authorities. And with that, we wrap things up. MOU signed to boost Ireland–Guizhou tourism cooperation Immersive cultural shows: Miao dances,

As global trade landscapes evolve and tariff uncertainty continues to challenge traditional markets, the 2025 China International Consumer Electronics Exposition (CICEE) presents a timely and strategic opportunity for international businesses. Scheduled for September 17–22, 2025, at the Qingdao International Convention and Exhibition Centre, CICEE is recognized as one of China’s foremost national-level events in the consumer electronics sector. Be Seen, Be Heard, Be There. Pat McCarthy Tweet A Premier Gateway to Asia’s Consumer Electronics Market Approved by the State Council and co-organized by the Shandong Provincial Government, the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, the China Electronics Society, the Qingdao Municipal Government, the Ireland Sino Institute, and Zatino Group, CICEE has become a cornerstone for global industry collaboration and innovation since its founding in 2001. With more than 700 exhibitors, 113,000+ visitors, and a total exhibition area of 200,000 square meters, the exposition offers an exceptional platform for product display, technical exchange, and international trade engagement. Strengthening Business Resilience Through Market Diversification For European and Irish enterprises in particular, participation in CICEE provides a tangible avenue to reduce exposure to geopolitical risks and tariff-related disruptions. By establishing a direct presence in China’s vast consumer electronics market, companies can diversify revenue streams, build strategic partnerships, and gain insight into emerging technologies and local demand trends. CICEE facilitates access to China’s innovation-driven economy — an essential step for forward-looking businesses seeking long-term competitiveness in the global marketplace. With more than 700 exhibitors, 113,000+ visitors, and a total exhibition area of 200,000 square meters, the exposition offers an exceptional platform for product display, technical exchange, and international trade engagement. Comprehensive Exhibitor Support for International Participants To ensure the success and comfort of international delegations, CICEE offers a fully hosted booth package designed with convenience and efficiency in mind: A professionally constructed 36㎡ exhibition booth Hotel accommodation for two representatives at the convention hotel One round-trip international economy class airfare Daily meals, airport transfers, and in-venue shuttle services Professional interpretation and business concierge support These arrangements allow exhibitors to focus fully on business development, networking, and exposure without logistical concerns. A Platform for High-Level Engagement and Sector Innovation CICEE brings together top-tier global brands such as Haier, Hisense, Huawei, JD.com, and Sony, alongside key decision-makers and procurement teams from across Asia. The 2025 event will highlight innovation in sectors including: Smart Devices & Home Appliances AI, Robotics, Metaverse, and Extended Reality (XR) 5G Connectivity, IoT, and Cybersecurity Smart Mobility & Green Technologies Cloud Infrastructure & Data Services Themed “Green Navigation, Digital Chain Future,” the exposition emphasizes sustainable innovation, with initiatives in place to reduce carbon emissions and environmental waste across the exhibition lifecycle. Qingdao: A Strategic Trade and Logistics Hub The host city of Qingdao offers exceptional connectivity and a strong industrial base. The venue is located just 40 minutes from Qingdao International Airport and features on-site hotels, 50+ themed halls, modern conference facilities, and outdoor exhibition zones. It serves as an ideal entry point into China’s northeastern industrial corridor. Join CICEE 2025 – Where Global Innovation Meets Strategic Growth We invite business leaders, manufacturers, exporters, and innovators to join this premier event and position themselves at the forefront of the Asia-Pacific consumer electronics market. Exhibitor registration and pricing details are available upon request. Early registration is strongly encouraged as premium exhibition zones are limited. For inquiries or to reserve your space, please contact: Zatino Group15 Harcourt Street, Dublin, D02 XY47  +353 1 267 8018  hxie@zatino.ie  www.zatino.ie Ireland Sino InstituteShenyang, Liaoning,China   +353 1 267 8018  team@irelandchinainstitute.eu  www.irelandchinainstitute.eu