ASIAN countries have been among the “hot” destinations for Chinese travellers since the reopening in 2023 and recent visa agreements signed between diplomats.
Figures from ITB China and its industry partners show that more than 70 per cent of all hosted buyers heading for the event in Shanghai in May have expressed their interest to source from Asian suppliers, with Southeast Asia and East Asia top of mind, while destinations in South and Central Asia are trending upwards.
A spokesman for ITB China said geographical proximity to China, travel product variety and familiarity with the market made Asia a popular sourcing target for leisure and MICE buyers in 2024.
“Asian destinations have always been the first choice among Chinese travellers. In terms of ways of travelling, more and more people are looking for fresh travel experiences and seeking a deeper understanding of local culture, food, and historical heritage,” said Yu Xiao, general manager for outbound business at Shanghai New Comfort International Travel.
Backgrounder… China lifts group-travel ban to key destinations
Meanwhile, ITB China has partnered with Trip.com for the annual Travel Trends Report 2024/25. Published annually by the organisers of ITB China, the report provides global strategists and decision-makers with insights into the latest trends in the Chinese travel market.
The report will be released as the trade show opens in Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Centre, May 27-29.
Areas to be covered in the Travel Trends Report:
– Overview of China’s outbound tourism market in 2023
– Opportunities and challenges in China’s outbound tourism business
– Insights into the most popular destinations, travel themes, products and changes in Chinese traveller behaviour.
– How to attract Chinese travellers through upgraded travel experiences and tailored services
– Generation Z: the travel behaviour of the key drivers of the future tourism market
– Analysis of the MICE and corporate travel market in China
– Trends of Chinese inbound tourism market
Main picture: Fun scenes from the ITB China 2023 showfloor with the China Panda mascot joining Saudi dancers
