PATA launches Tourism Development on New Formats - Emei Global Summit

BANGKOK - The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) successfully launched the Tourism Development on New Formats - Emei Global Summit in Leshan, Sichuan on Saturday, September 27, 2014. The summit was co-organized by Leshan Municipal People’s Government, Tourism Administration of Sichuan Province and Sichuan Bureau of Expo Affairs, with guidance by the Sichuan Provincial People’s Government and China Association of Travel Services. In addition, the Regional Office of Asia Pacific of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) provided support to the event.

Under the theme of Trends of Global Tourism Development and Layout of Existing Resources in the Spirit of Innovation, participants at the summit discussed and analysed the integration of tourism and other industries, and the driving factors behind it; the different patterns or forms of tourism derived from the development of new formats in tourism; the current situation of the development of new types of tourism operations; paths for promoting the transformation of new tourism; and upgrading and maintaining the sustainable development of tourism.

Mr. Wei Hong, Governor of Sichuan Provincial People’s Government, said, “Tourism is now the world's fastest-growing, most dynamic and most promising sunrise industry. With this situation, the development of Sichuan Tourism showcases new features and trends. Sichuan will actively cultivate new formats of tourism and commit to tourism innovation.”

In his keynote speech, PATA Chairman Mr. Scott Supernaw spoke about the many challenges that are critical for the development of responsible and sustainable travel and tourism in China, stating, “We must be aware of a major challenge that can be both an opportunity or a risk to future growth opportunities: that of Human Capital Development, developing the management and staff to serve and meet the expectations of not only a large, and increasingly demanding domestic market but growing and influential international guests.”

Mr. Robert Basiuk, specialist of UNWTO, noted that the Pacific Asia region will be a tremendous tourism destination and a huge source market as well in the near future. He added, “China will be one of the most attractive markets to everyone.”

The summit attracted over 400 attendees from both the public and private sectors, and attracted scholars, tourism industry leaders, and governors from China and aboard, allowing them to share their views and experiences.

sourced:traveldailynews.asia