A Showcase of Global Tourism: 30th International Trade Fair in Russia

Published on September 19, 2024

The 30th International Trade Fair for Travel & Tourism (TTF) opened in Moscow, Russia, on September 17, 2024. This highly anticipated event, a key platform for tourism industry professionals, aims to foster global tourism collaboration, provide industry insights, and showcase new travel trends, products, and services from all over the world.

Exhibitors from more than 50 countries participated, and the China booth became one of the main attractions at the event. The booth displayed an array of tourism offerings, focusing on cultural exchanges, eco-tourism, and the promotion of China’s unique travel destinations. The China National Tourist Office highlighted the country’s efforts to develop smart tourism, an initiative that aims to integrate technology to enhance the traveler’s experience.

China’s Impact at the Trade Fair

The China booth drew attention with its visually stunning displays of China’s iconic landscapes, cultural heritage, and cutting-edge tourism innovations. Through interactive exhibits, visitors could experience virtual tours of China’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors, while also learning about China’s lesser-known but equally breathtaking locations, such as the Red Beach in Liaoning Province and the karst mountains in Guangxi.

Several tourism agencies and travel operators from China participated, engaging in business discussions with Russian and international travel companies. These meetings aimed to boost travel exchanges between the two nations, increase collaboration on joint tourism initiatives, and introduce new travel routes. The interest in China’s inbound and outbound travel sector was high, as tourism in China continues to rebound and grow post-pandemic.

Photo Gallery:

• Visitors immerse themselves in the China booth experience at the trade fair in Moscow, Russia, on September 17, 2024.
  (Photo: China News Service/Tian Bing)
• Interactive displays of Chinese culture and heritage attract attendees at the event.
  (Photo: China News Service/Tian Bing)
• Industry professionals from across the globe gather at the China booth to discuss potential tourism collaborations.
  (Photo: China News Service/Tian Bing)
• A snapshot of the busy China booth, where cultural performances and virtual tours of famous Chinese landmarks were a highlight.
  (Photo: China News Service/Tian Bing)

Russia’s Role in Global Tourism

As the host country, Russia also showcased its travel and tourism potential at the fair, with a special focus on eco-tourism and adventure travel. The event featured several booths highlighting Russia’s rich historical and cultural heritage, including popular tourist destinations like Moscow’s Red Square, Lake Baikal, and the stunning landscapes of Kamchatka.

The TTF in Moscow provided a platform for dialogue on how countries can revitalize their tourism sectors after the disruptions caused by the global pandemic. As travel recovers, the event emphasized the growing demand for cultural exchanges and eco-friendly tourism options, catering to travelers who prioritize sustainability and meaningful travel experiences.

Key Highlights of the Fair

• The increasing role of technology in tourism, particularly in smart tourism, which is transforming how travelers plan, experience, and share their travel adventures.
• The growing focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices, with destinations highlighting efforts to protect natural resources and reduce the carbon footprint of tourism.
• Several business-to-business (B2B) meetings between international travel agencies and tour operators to explore joint tourism ventures.
• In-depth discussions on post-pandemic travel trends, particularly the rise in demand for wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural heritage travel.

Future Prospects for China-Russia Tourism

The trade fair also served as a significant venue to enhance tourism exchanges between China and Russia. With an increasing number of travelers from both nations seeking cross-border travel opportunities, there has been a notable rise in partnerships aimed at boosting tourism flows. Russian tourists are showing increased interest in China’s cultural landmarks and diverse landscapes, while Chinese travelers are keen to explore Russia’s historic cities, vast natural parks, and cultural sites.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, a representative from China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism emphasized the importance of strengthening tourism ties with Russia. He highlighted the recent growth in Chinese outbound tourism and the mutual benefits of enhanced cooperation between the two countries’ travel sectors.