Chongqing will allow transit passengers 72-hour visa-free stays from November in a move aimed at boosting the local economy and tourism.

The new policy will apply to visitors from 45 countries, the municipal government announced on Wednesday, and follows similar decisions taken by Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu.

Ai Yang, deputy secretary-general of the Chongqing government, said, "The policy will increase cooperation between Chongqing and foreign countries, boosting tourism, commerce and cultural exchanges."