In 2019, the Chinese outbound tourism market was a global powerhouse, with Chinese travelers making 155 million trips abroad and spending an impressive $255 billion, according to data from the UN World Tourism Organization. Access mattersA key driver of the market's revival is the strategic relaxation of visa policies, making travel more accessible for Chinese tourists. Thailand's visa-free policy, for example, has not yet returned Chinese arrivals to pre-pandemic numbers, while Japan remains a top destination for Chinese tourists despite having more restrictive policies. Saudi Arabia is also experiencing a surge in Chinese tourists, many of whom are drawn by immersive cultural experiences and luxury accommodation. He believes there is still significant potential for growth among Chinese outbound travelers that has yet to be fully realized.

Source: The North Africa Journal November 07, 2024 17:07 UTC