UNWTO, STB to debate Asian tourism at ITB

Messe Berlin (Singapore), organiser of ITB Asia, has announced a panel debate for the upcoming conference in October entitled “Looking into Tourism in Asia in 2030”.

The panel will consist of The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), who will come together at this year’s ITB Asia event to debate the future of tourism in the region. The organisations will hope to exchange expertise and insights into tourism trends in Asia moving towards 2030, and how businesses can capitalise on the growing market.

“With a reputation that has grown alongside the show, ITB Asia draws international industry leaders across the board of different travel segments. Each year industry innovators congregate to deliver insights to our delegates in order to influence and maximise the potential of Asia’s tourism industry. We take extreme pride in understanding our exhibitors and partners and keeping the show’s content relevant to their needs,” said Executive Director of ITB Asia Nino Gruettke.

“This year, with our inaugural panel debate focussing on tourism trends towards 2030, we hope to give delegates the opportunity to formulate appropriate policies and strategies to future-proof their businesses and ensure sustainable growth despite uncertainties,” added Gruettke.

UNTWO’s Director, Market Trends and Marketing Techniques John Kester, will begin the session with an introduction to regional tourism trends based on UNWTO’s “Tourism Towards 2030” report. According to UNTWO’s report, Asia is expected to be at the forefront of the tourism boom over the next 20 years.

“Our research shows an immense potential in the Asian travel industry. Leveraging ITB Asia’s strength as an industry knowledge platform, we believe that this session will be a catalyst in preparing travel professionals for future business opportunities and a critical element in providing delegates an overview of the factors and trends which are expected to drive tourism growth in Asia in the future,” said UNWTO spokesperson, Sandra Carvao.

UNWTO’s findings also state that international tourist arrivals will surpass 1 billion by 2012, reaching 1.8 billion by 2030. Of these international arrivals, Asia and the Pacific regions will account for 535 million by 2030, making up about 30% of total international arrivals, up from 22% in 2010.

ITB Asia 2011 attracted over 7,500 attendees from over 90 countries, delivering over 3,000 minutes of conference content. Now in its fifth year, ITB 2012 has over 3,700 minutes of content already lined up. ITB Asia 2012 will be held from 17 – 19 October 2012 at The Sands Expo and Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Sourced: traveldailymedia