According to the China Tourism Research Institute, 2015 saw an incredible 61.90 million outbound visitors from China in just the first half of the year, that’s 12.1% more than during the same period in 2014.

And, surveys conducted by travel agencies all around China predict that outbound tourism is set to rise further still in 2016, despite fears of an economic crash. In fact, it is expected that outbound tourism will see a substantial increase as a result of circumstances effecting Chinese travel. To begin with, more convenient visa policies for Chinese nationals is set to have a huge impact. From this year, new visitor visas for tourists from China will be valid in the UK for two years, which is great news for both the British economy and tourism markets. source

The operation of more international flights could also offer residents from smaller cities the chance to travel abroad conveniently. The Chinese middle class’s growing ability to afford international travel has seen an ever increasing number of flights leaving from 2^nd and 3^rd mainland cities. This year, American Airlines is launching a new flight from Xi’an to San Francisco, the first international flight to be launched from the city.

In addition, with the implement of “One Belt and One Road” strategy last year, China’s outbound tourism market is endowed with more opportunities. Proposed by the Chinese government, this strategy encourages connectivity and cooperation among primarily Eurasian countries consisting of the “Silk Road Economic Belt” including Central and Eastern Europe, and the “Maritime Silk Road”, a conduit for trade and cultural exchange between China’s south-eastern coastal areas and foreign countries. The strategy underlines China’s push to take a bigger role in global affairs, as opposed to the country’s long-held reputation as a parochial state.

All of these factors point towards 2016 being the best year yet for outbound Chinese tourism!

If you’d like some help with ideas for your 2016 China marketing strategy, we’re here to help. Contact Helena at [email protected]

Enjoyed this article? Then these may also be of interest to you.

China’s ageing population: a new market for tourism?

How to attract 300 million Chinese millennials

Caravanning – a surprising segment of Chinese tourism