Ecuador Suspends Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Nationals Amid Irregular Migration Surge

Ecuador has suspended its visa-free entry policy for Chinese nationals due to a significant increase in irregular migration, with many Chinese travelers using Ecuador as a starting point to reach the United States via Mexico. The Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs cited concerns about human trafficking and migrant smuggling as half of the Chinese entrants either overstay or leave through irregular routes. This decision impacts the 'run' movement of Chinese nationals seeking asylum in the U.S., following China's strict COVID-19 policies and economic slowdown. The Biden administration has been pressuring transit countries to curb the flow of asylum seekers to the U.S. border, where encounters with Chinese nationals have surged dramatically. Chinese officials expressed opposition to human smuggling but highlighted the positive aspects of the visa agreement prior to its suspension.