As the world’s most populous country, China has long been a powerhouse in the global tourism market. Flanked by a vast array of natural wonders, cultural sites, and modern metropolises, the country has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. From 2016 to 2019, the total number of outbound trips from China has nearly doubled from 135 million to 261 million. As a result, the size of the China travel market has increased exponentially, with the country now accounting for more than 10% of the global tourism market share.
In terms of outbound tourism, China’s travel market is primarily driven by independent travelers, who account for more than 80% of all outbound trips from the country. This shift in the Chinese tourism market has been driven by an increasing number of travelers from the country’s middle class, who now have the financial means to take leisure trips abroad. In comparison, Chinese travelers are increasingly opting to travel solo or with friends, as opposed to traditional group tours.
The changing preferences in the Chinese travel market have also been driven by increasing accessibility to international travel. In recent years, the Chinese government has relaxed visa restrictions, making it easier for Chinese citizens to travel abroad. This has been further compounded by the proliferation of low-cost airlines and other budget travel options. As a result, more Chinese travelers are now able to travel abroad and explore different destinations.
In terms of destination preferences, the Chinese travel market has traditionally been dominated by neighboring countries, such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea. However, more recently, Chinese travelers are now opting for more exotic locations, such as Europe, the United States, and Australia. This shift in destination preferences has been driven by a desire to explore new cultures and experiences, as well as the increasing availability of budget travel options.
Overall, the size of the China travel market has been growing quickly in recent years, as more and more Chinese citizens are now able to explore the world. As a result, the country has become a key player in the global tourism market, with Chinese travelers now accounting for more than 10% of all outbound trips. As the Chinese middle class continues to grow, the size of the China travel market is expected to continue to increase. As such, the country is on track to become an even larger contributor to the global tourism market in the years to come.