Sanya advocates collaborative tourism development at coastal tourism event

The 2024 Tropical Coastal City Tourism Event, held in Sanya, Hainan province, from Sept 4 to 5, unites six international tourism organizations, delegates from foreign city administrations and tourism bodies, and representatives from pertinent domestic governmental sectors and travel companies. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Tropical coastal cities can collaborate and drive sustainable development in the tourism sector, said Fan Weizheng, vice mayor of Sanya, during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Tropical Coastal City Tourism Event. The event ran from Wednesday to Thursday in Sanya, Hainan province.

Fan highlighted Sanya's proactive stance in forging extensive partnerships with global communities to advance sustainable development in tourism.

Albert Yip, director general of the Sanya Tourism Board, spearheaded the initiative to establish the Tropical Coastal Cities Tourism Alliance. He emphasized that cities can boost international tourism marketing through collaborative campaigns and by positioning tropical coastal cities as premier tourist destinations. Cities can enhance tourism infrastructure and services by sharing resources and experiences to guarantee top-notch visitor experiences.

Yip highlighted the importance of fostering cultural exchange and cooperation through robust partnerships and network expansion. This approach facilitates exchanges with international organizations, city representatives and tourism professionals.

Yip also urged for the promotion of eco-friendly tourism initiatives to safeguard tropical coastal ecosystems and ensure sustainable development.

Hainan province, and specifically Sanya, serve as a prime example of how a coastal region can utilize its natural beauty, maritime heritage and vibrant culture to establish itself as a global leader in coastal tourism, said Harry Hwang, director of UN Tourism's Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific.

Hwang also emphasized that the province's cruise industry has grown significantly, solidifying Sanya's position as an essential stop in the Asia-Pacific cruise circuit. The local government's proactive efforts to develop water sports centers, marine facilities and marine parks have played a vital role in creating a thriving sea tourism economy.

Considering China's recent decision to resume a visa-free policy for citizens from 59 countries who want to visit Hainan, Hwang anticipated the province would attract more international tourists. He emphasized that this potential influx of tourists can be realized through more aggressive marketing and promotional efforts to showcase the island's attractions and amenities to a global audience.

Soon Hwa Wong, ambassador for Greater China at the Pacific Asia Travel Association, said that Hainan is one of the premier island destinations for Asia-Pacific tourism and has tremendous potential to expand its inbound tourism business. Being an island province, Hainan would benefit from increased air connectivity to enhance its accessibility for international visitors, he suggested.