Cuba Joins Global Travel Leaders at 2025 China International Travel Mart in Haikou, Showcasing Unique Attractions to Chinese Tourists – Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 20, 2025

The 2025 China International Travel Mart (CITM) has officially opened in Haikou, marking an exciting chapter for global tourism as the event welcomes more than 1,000 tour operators and representatives from over 100 countries. Taking place in the beautiful Hainan province, the CITM provides a vital platform for tourism professionals to forge meaningful connections and explore new business opportunities. This year’s event, themed “Hello China,” promises to highlight China’s growing tourism market and serves as a gateway for international destinations to showcase their offerings. Among the participating countries, Cuba stands out with its delegation led by Jorge Alberto Garcia, Cuba’s First Deputy Minister of Tourism, aiming to entice Chinese travelers with their Cuba Unica initiative.

Hainan Becomes the Heart of Global Tourism in 2025

The opening of the China International Travel Mart in Haikou, the capital of Hainan Island, is a significant milestone for global tourism. This is the first time the event has been hosted in Hainan, after alternating between Shanghai and Kunming over the past decades. The Hainan province has been increasingly recognized as an emerging travel hub, attracting international and domestic visitors with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and thriving tourism infrastructure.

With a sprawling exhibition space covering 65,000 square meters, the CITM 2025 is set to present five thematic areas that will showcase the latest in travel trends, technologies, and tourism services. The event has also integrated in-person negotiations between industry professionals, creating valuable networking opportunities for tour operators, travel agencies, and destinations across the globe.

Cuba Makes Waves with its Tourism Pitch at CITM 2025

Cuba has brought a dynamic presence to the CITM 2025, with a strong focus on promoting its Cuba Unica initiative aimed at attracting Chinese tourists. The initiative highlights the country’s unique offerings, from historical landmarks like Havana’s vibrant colonial architecture to pristine beaches and world-renowned cultural events. This bold presentation is designed to tap into China’s growing interest in long-haul travel destinations and experiential tourism, positioning Cuba as a must-visit destination for adventure, culture, and luxury seekers alike.

Jorge Alberto Garcia, Cuba’s First Deputy Tourism Minister, led the Cuba Tourism Destination presentation at the fair, emphasizing the importance of fostering stronger ties with China, one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-growing outbound tourism markets. This strategic move aligns with the global trend of diversifying tourism sources and appealing to new international markets beyond traditional tourist feeders.

Why China’s Travel Market Matters for Global Tourism

The Chinese travel market is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing. As the country’s middle class expands, so does its appetite for travel both domestically and internationally. The CITM 2025 provides the perfect platform for countries like Cuba to tap into this growing potential by offering tailored experiences for Chinese tourists, who are increasingly seeking unique and culturally rich travel experiences abroad.

Additionally, the event offers tourism operators a chance to showcase emerging trends in sustainable tourism, luxury travel, and digital tourism, areas that are becoming increasingly important to the modern-day traveler. The opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and collaboration are enormous, particularly as China continues to solidify its position as a global tourism powerhouse.

What Should Travelers Know About the 2025 China International Travel Mart?

If you’re a traveler planning to visit Hainan or China, it’s essential to know that CITM 2025 is more than just a professional event—it’s a showcase of the newest trends in the tourism industry. Here are some key takeaways:

• Tourist Attractions in China: As the country rapidly develops its tourism sector, expect to see new opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, with destinations in Hainan, Shanghai, and Beijing gaining more international exposure.
• Destination Highlights from Cuba: The Cuba Unica initiative invites Chinese travelers to explore the island’s historical sites, vibrant culture, and idyllic beaches.
• Innovative Tourism Technologies: CITM will highlight new technological advancements that could revolutionize the way tourists plan and experience their trips.

Travelers should keep an eye on the newest partnerships and projects announced during the event, as they could lead to incredible travel offers and opportunities in the coming years.

Travel Tips for Chinese Tourists Interested in Cuba

For Chinese visitors interested in traveling to Cuba, here are some useful tips:

1. Traveling to Cuba: Make sure to check visa requirements and the best time to visit. The winter months are ideal, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
2. Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Learning a few Spanish phrases can go a long way in building rapport with locals.
3. Must-See Attractions: Don’t miss the colorful streets of Havana, the historic Varadero beach, and the lush landscapes of Viñales Valley.
4. Stay Informed on Travel Deals: Keep an eye out for special promotions and packages introduced at events like CITM to get the best deals on flights and accommodations.

Embracing the Future of Global Tourism

The 2025 China International Travel Mart is a pivotal moment in the global tourism landscape. With the world’s top destinations converging in Haikou, the event is set to shape the future of travel, opening new doors for destinations like Cuba and beyond. As countries around the world look to attract travelers from the vast Chinese market, events like CITM are proving to be essential in forging strong partnerships, building connections, and inspiring travelers with unique experiences. Whether you’re considering a visit to Hainan, Cuba, or another exotic destination, the CITM is where future tourism dreams are made.