Shanghai enacts new regulations to boost cruise economy

Inbound tourists arriving by cruise ship watch a lion dance performance in Shanghai, east China, Jan. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Legislative authorities in Shanghai have passed new regulations aimed at promoting the development of the cruise economy, establishing a robust legal framework to support high-quality growth in the city's cruise industry.

The 27-article regulations, passed by the Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress on Tuesday, are set to take effect on March 1, 2026.

Among the key measures stipulated in the regulations, Shanghai will pilot "cruises to nowhere," allowing international ships to depart from and return to Shanghai while cruising within approved waters without docking at any ports.

To improve port services and facilities, Shanghai will accelerate the installation and enhancement of shore power systems, encouraging home-port cruise ships to utilize this energy source mode. Additionally, the city will support the adoption of green fuels and new energy technologies.

The regulation further emphasizes improving the competitiveness of the entire cruise industry chain by promoting port-city integration, including fostering cultural, tourism, commercial, sports, and exhibition activities along waterfront areas and around ports.

From 2006 to 2025, the city has received over 3,500 cruise ships and more than 18 million passengers, accounting for over 60 percent of the national cruise market. Shanghai is now home to Asia's largest and the world's fourth-busiest cruise home port.