Do i need a return flight itenary or one way flight itenary if i am applying for a Q1 relative visa

Hello , i went to the chinese consulate in Cape town to apply for a Q1 relative type for a duration of 1 year so the application official checked my documents and said i need a flight itenary which i did not have ,would i only need a one way flight itenary to china or do they want a return flight itenary if you are applying for a Q1 relative type for a duration of one year ? i forgot to ask the chinese application official but as one reviewer said they come across as very cold but only the security is friendly and the.chinese consular website does not give the give you the correct information like all the supporting documents you need so you have to run around.