European nations are moving to impose tighter COVID-19 measures for arrivals from China amid the reported surge in the number of new coronavirus cases in the country.

The British government announced new measures on Friday for people traveling from mainland China on direct flights to England. Starting from January 5, these arrivals will need to show a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than two days before departure.

British officials cited a lack of comprehensive health information shared by China.

They also said that from January 8, a sample of arrivals will be tested to monitor for potential new variants of the coronavirus.

The French government announced on Friday that it will require air travelers from China to provide a negative test result obtained within two days of departure.

The rule is expected to take effect as early as January 1. Officials said the test will be required on all flights from China, including those with stopovers. Passengers on those flights will have to wear masks on board.

The officials cited an expected spike in arrivals from China around next month's Lunar New Year holidays. They also pointed to a possible emergence of new variants as more people travel.

Spain's government announced on Friday that it will require arrivals from China to provide negative test results or proof of vaccination.

Italy is also mandating coronavirus tests for passengers from China.