Brunei Strengthens Energy and Tourism Ties with China
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The Sultan of Brunei, Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, during a three-day visit to China on February 6. In addition to attending the opening ceremony of the Asian Winter Games, the Sultan and Chinese leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in two key areas: energy and tourism.
This marks the Sultan’s first state visit to China since 2017, although His Majesty attended the Second Belt and Road Forum in 2019. A key outcome of the visit was an agreement on tourism, with Brunei recognizing China’s decision to extend its unilateral 30-day visa-free policy for Bruneian passport holders. In return, Brunei granted a 14-day visa waiver for Chinese travelers. Additionally, the two leaders pledged to collaborate on commercial oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, though specific areas were not disclosed. Both sides affirmed their commitment to respecting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
For U.S. companies, Brunei’s growing openness to international cooperation in energy and tourism presents valuable opportunities. As Brunei seeks to diversify its economy—currently 60% reliant on oil and gas—there is increasing potential for American firms in tourism, infrastructure development, and energy exploration. With Brunei actively looking to reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons, U.S. businesses specializing in sustainable energy solutions, hospitality, and related industries may find a receptive market for investment and collaboration.