Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Taiwan is in the process of reevaluating its tourism objectives due to the challenges presented by cross-strait travel restrictions. The Director-General of the Tourism Administration, Chou Yung-hui, has voiced concerns to the Central News Agency about a possible deficit of 2 million in foreign visitor arrivals for the current year. Chou has pointed out that the tourism goals might have to be revised downwards to 10 million visitors if China continues its suspension of group tourist visits to Taiwan. He does not foresee a full recovery to the pre-pandemic visitor levels of 12 million until 2025.
In response to these challenges, Taiwan has called on China to demonstrate goodwill in matters of tourism and politics. This appeal suggests that positive actions from China could lead Taiwan to reconsider its prohibition on tour groups heading to China, a ban that was expected to be lifted in June. However, last month, Taiwan decided against lifting the three-year ban on group tourists traveling to China, attributing this decision to Beijing’s unfriendly stance and the absence of Chinese tourist groups visiting Taiwan.
In spite of these hurdles, Taiwan has experienced a notable resurgence in tourism, with almost 1.9 million visitors by March 15, marking an 85 percent recovery compared to the pre-pandemic period in 2019. The majority of these visitors come from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Macau, underscoring their importance as key sources of tourism for Taiwan.
Furthermore, Chou has disclosed plans to broaden the scope of the Taiwan Pass to encompass domestic travelers as well. Originally conceived for international tourists, this pass, costing New Taiwan dollar 2,500 (approximately USD 80), will soon offer three days of unlimited access to the nation’s high-speed rail, select metro services, and tour buses. The scheme will also be extended to include cruise liner services, with its launch scheduled for June 1, though the final pricing is still under consideration.
This strategic pivot in Taiwan’s tourism policy highlights the significant impact geopolitical factors can have on global travel trends. By adapting its offerings and targeting both international and domestic tourists, Taiwan is actively working to mitigate the effects of external pressures and sustain its tourism industry’s growth trajectory.
Tags: china, global impact, Taiwan, Tourism, Travel Policy
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
