Robust growth forecast for China's outbound tourism
Updated: 2015-09-08 06:49
By Su Zhou and Yang Feiyue(China Daily)
|
||||||||
Chinese tourists take photographs by the Han River in Seoul. [Photo/Agencies] |
This is despite a slowdown in the growth of outbound tourist trips in recent years.
The report said the number of Chinese outbound tourist trips reached 109 million last year, up by 11 percent on the previous year and accounting for 9.58 percent of international tourists.
The Market Research Report on Chinese Outbound Tourist Consumption (2014-2015), was released by the Beijing-based World Tourism Cities Federation.
During the period reviewed, tourists spent $165 billion, an increase of 28 percent year-on-year. This consumption comprised 11 percent of international tourism revenues.
Wei Xiao'an, secretary-general of the China Tourism Leisure Association, said the outbound tourism market in China is embracing a "new normal" just as the economy did-referring to slower growth.
Last year's 11 percent growth compared with expansion of about 60 percent in 1997-98, when policies were introduced to encourage people to travel overseas.
But various factors, including simplified visa application procedures and easier tax rebate policies, will continue to boost growth in both the number of trips and spending, Wei said.
Based on a survey of more than 17,000 tourists who traveled abroad in the year up to April, the report found that Chinese tourists are switching from inbound to outbound tourism.
As a result, there is "huge potential in Chinese tourists' spending", the report said.
About 42 percent of the tourists surveyed said they were willing to spend as much as 20 percent of their living expenses on travel.
- Thailand, Japan, HK prove top destinations
- Outbound tourist flows from China rise
- Falling ruble attracts more Chinese tourists to Russia
- China builds tourism facilities to bolster industry
- UNWTO praises China for using tourism to fight poverty
- Chinese tourists drive higher guest arrivals in Abu Dhabi
- Aerial view of Yamzho Yumco Lake in Tibet
- Chinese 'blade runners' fight for sports dreams
- The world in photos: Aug 31 - Sept 6
- Breath of fresh air for a 'living fossil'
- Learn to behave like a real noble
- 50th anniversary of Tibet autonomous region
- Red carpet looks at the 72nd Venice Film Festival
- China beats Russia in 4 sets at volleyball World Cup
Most Viewed
Editor's Picks
8 highlights about V-day Parade |
Glimpses of Tibet: Plateaus, people and faith |
Chinese entrepreneurs remain optimistic despite economic downfall |
50th anniversary of Tibet autonomous region |
Tianjin explosions: Deaths, destruction and bravery |
Cinemas enjoy strong first half |
Today's Top News
Sarah Palin: Immigrants should 'speak American'
Germany frees up funds for refugees, speeds up asylum procedures
China 2014 GDP growth revised down to 7.3%
White paper on Tibet reaffirms living Buddha policy
China to introduce circuit-breaker for stock market
Austria, Germany open borders to migrants
Central government steps up economic support for Tibet
China economy enters 'new normal' eyeing 7% growth rate: G20
US Weekly
Geared to go |
The place to be |