Representatives from China and Japan have given initial approval to the introduction of the so-called “Cruise One Pass Card.” This proposal, which was made by local officials, would streamline immigration at participating ports. As Mike Balfour now reports, representatives from the three countries now need to hammer out the details.



Report


[SLUG]
Tripartite cruise forum in Shanghai (October 13)


At the Lake Malaren Convention Centre in Shanghai, China, working-level representatives from Jeju, Shanghai and Fukuoka gathered to participate in a cruise forum.


[SLUG]
Jeju pitched ‘Cruise One Pass Card’ in August


Jeju had proposed the introduction of a tentatively-called “Cruise One Pass Card” at the Asia Cruise Forum held in Jeju in August this year.


Representatives from the three countries talked about the Jeju proposal at the Shanghai forum on October 13.


The proposal aims to provide uniform immigration inspection systems. Currently, port inspection differs from country to country.

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‘Cruise One Pass Card’ would allow extended stays


Experts say the standardized immigration control would save time and let tourists visit destinations for longer periods.


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China and Japan agree to Jeju’s proposal


China has agreed to Jeju’s proposal.


The country added that it will adopt the new harmonized system if Korea and Japan provide proper passenger information needed for immigration control at ports in China.


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Working-level consultative body planned


Japan also welcomes the introduction of the “Cruise One Pass Card”.


The three sides agreed to organize a consultation group so that Jeju, Shanghai and Fukuoka can gather for regular discussions.


Interview
Lee Gi-u / Representative, Jeju provincial government
Working-level groups from the three countries focused on the “Cruise One Pass Card” at the forum and they agreed to the idea. They will have frequent meetings to bring the proposal to fruition.
<인터뷰:이기우 제주도 해양산업과장>
"3개국 실무자들이 정기적으로 만나서 집중적으로 이 문제를 의논하기로 했고 필요성에 공감했기 때문에 자주 만나서 빠른 시일안에 해결하도록 하겠습니다."

[SLUG]
China proposes regular Shanghai-Jeju-Fukuoka route


Notably, China proposed a regular cruise itinerary linking Shanghai, Jeju and Fukuoka once the “Cruise Pass One Card” is adopted.


China’s proposal includes a system where passengers buy cruise tickets that can allow them to get on and off cruise ships in Jeju and Fukuoka as well as in Shanghai.


Interview
Gang Suk-yeong / Professor, Kyonggi University
Shanghai also suggested regular sailings between Fukuoka, Jeju, and Shanghai to make it convenient for tourists. That would benefit all three countries.
<인터뷰:강숙영 경기대학교 교수>
"후쿠오카, 제주, 상해를 도는 정기노선을 만들어서 제주도, 후쿠오카도 모항이 되도록 윈윈해보자 오히려 상해가 추가적으로 제안해주고 있는 상황입니다."

However, as immigration control is managed by national governments, it may take some time to introduce the “Cruise Pass One Card”.

[Reporter] Mike Balfour
[Camera] Han Gyung-yeob


With China and Japan promising to cooperate with Jeju to introduce a new harmonized system at the cruise forum in Shanghai, the “Cruise One Pass Card” is expected to be realized in the near future.

Mike Balfour, KCTV