News to Know

China Eases Entry Rules With Visa-Free Access for UK, Canada Citizens
SOURCE: TRAVEL + LEISURE ASIA, 2/16

Beginning February 17, 2026, Canadian and British tourists and business travellers will be able to enter mainland China visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. The policy, announced by China’s Foreign Ministry, will remain in effect until at least December 31, 2026, marking one of the clearest signs yet of improving diplomatic ties after years of strained relations.

Industry Spotlight

Upcoming Academy Course
Advanced Principles of Business Travel Management

Registration Closes Soon: Feb 22
Course Dates: March 5 – March 26
Thursdays from 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM EST

Ready to move from program manager to strategic travel leader? The Advanced Principles of Business Travel Management course builds the skills you need to optimize policy, manage risk, strengthen supplier strategy, and leverage data to drive smarter decisions. Designed for experienced professionals, this course prepares you for the GTP® exam and equips you with frameworks and best practices to take your travel program, and your career, to the next level.

After the course you receive your GBTA Professional Development Certificate. GTP holders will earn 14 GTP® Recertification credits.

GBTA Convention 2026
Register Now and Save – Rates Increase Tomorrow

Make the connections that matter most at GBTA Convention 2026. With 5,000+ business travel professionals, 25+ hours of networking, and 10+ hours on the Expo floor at McCormick Place in Chicago, you'll have every opportunity to meet the peers, suppliers, and partners who can help shape your program's future.

Register before February 18 at 11:59 PM ET to lock in the lower rate!