China’s travel and tourism industry is expected to make a full recovery this year – both in terms of revenue generated and jobs created.
The World Travel & Tourism Council expects the country’s tourism sector to get back closer to pre-pandemic highs this year.
The WTTC sees China creating nearly 11.5 million jobs in tourism this year – which would see approximately one in every 10 people in the country employed in tourism-related businesses.
Chinese tourism is still nearly 8 million jobs short of pre-Covid employment levels, but should close 2023 only 10% down on 2019 levels. The WTTC also expects to see a 50% increase in international visitor spend in China this year.
WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson said: “Travel & Tourism is a vital driver of economic growth and job creation to China, and we predict a significant boost to the global Travel & Tourism sector as residents begin to travel once again.
“The fact China has reopened is great news. In 2019 Chinese tourists represented 15% of international spending and that figure is set to grow. We are urging governments to prioritise and streamline visa applications to ensure embassies can manage the high visa demand from Chinese residents.”
