China’s travel and tourism sector is expected to contribute record levels to the country’s economy this year with the Asian powerhouse marking a huge tourism comeback and rapidly becoming one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
That is according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which has forecast tourism generating a record 13.7 trillion Yuan to China’s economy this year; roughly €1.7tn. That would be over 10% above pre-pandemic levels, with the industry also set to support 83 million jobs.
International visitor spending is projected to rise by nearly ¥33BN – 13% above 2019, while domestic spending is forecast to increase by over ¥1.1TN, reaching ¥7TN, further cementing China’s strength as a global Travel & Tourism leader.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “Everything is pointing in the right direction for China’s Travel & Tourism sector. Jobs are catching up, international visitor spending hit a record ¥1TN last year, and the outlook for 2025 is strong. While 2024 wasn’t without its challenges with an uneven recovery – international travel spend exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
“Recent moves, such as refund-upon-purchase for international visitors and the expansion of visa-free access to international visitors show a smart, outward-looking strategy. This is long-term thinking in action, focused on competitiveness, experience, and re-establishing China’s position as a global Travel & Tourism leader.”
