World Tourism Alliance seen as boon to China

A newly established international tourism organization — initiated by China — is expected to push the global tourism industry forward and boost the country’s influence in the key sector, experts said.

The World Tourism Alliance was founded on Sept 12 in Chengdu, Sichuan province, during the 22nd General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

The newly created organization is the first comprehensive international nonprofit tourism NGO initiated by China.

Following a vision for “better tourism, better world”, it will work with UNWTO to promote the industry.

The alliance comprises a general assembly, council and secretariat, with its headquarters and secretariat based in Beijing.

It has 89 founding members from around the world, including leading companies, think tanks, trade associations and researchers. These come from such countries as the United States, France, Germany, Australia, South Africa, Japan and Brazil.

“As China is shifting from a large tourism (destination) country to a powerhouse in the sector, the timing is perfect to found the alliance,” said Duan Qiang, its newly elected chairman.

Duan added that the WTA is an open, forward-thinking industrial group, which will continue to recruit more members.

Sichuan, as the birthplace of the alliance, is at the forefront of the country for its booming tourism, he said.

With rich resources and flourishing related businesses, the province is home to an ever expanding group of tourism companies and groups. These are potential candidates in the WTA’s recruitment drive, Duan noted.

Gino Andreetta, chief executive of Club Med Greater China, said the WTA would play a leading role in the development of the world tourism industry. It is also expected to contribute to advancing the Belt and Road Initiative.

Jean-Louis Sureau, general manager of a French foundation, said the alliance is of significance to the tourism exchanges between China and France.

He added that he was glad to see China expanding its influence over the international tourism industry.