VisitBritain, the national tourism agency for the United Kingdom, is preparing for a significant trade mission to China. The mission will be led by Nick de Bois CBE, Chairman of VisitBritain, and aims to strengthen ties between the two countries and boost tourism between them.
China has become an increasingly important market for the UK tourism industry in recent years. The number of Chinese tourists visiting the UK has been steadily increasing, and VisitBritain is eager to tap into this growing market. In 2019, before the global pandemic hit, Chinese visitors spent over £1.7 billion in the UK, making it one of the highest-spending markets for the country.
The trade mission will take place from October 17th to October 22nd and will include visits to Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. The delegation will consist of representatives from the UK tourism industry, including hoteliers, attractions, and tour operators. They will have the opportunity to meet with their Chinese counterparts and discuss potential collaborations and partnerships.
One of the key objectives of the trade mission is to promote the UK as a top destination for Chinese tourists. VisitBritain will showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. They will highlight iconic attractions such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Stonehenge, as well as lesser-known gems like the picturesque Cotswolds and the stunning Scottish Highlands.
In addition to promoting traditional tourist destinations, VisitBritain will also focus on attracting Chinese visitors to explore the UK’s lesser-known regions. They will highlight the beauty of the Lake District, the historic cities of Bath and York, and the charming countryside of Wales and Northern Ireland. By showcasing the diverse offerings of the UK, VisitBritain hopes to encourage Chinese tourists to explore beyond London and spread their economic impact throughout the country.
Nick de Bois CBE, Chairman of VisitBritain, expressed his excitement about the upcoming trade mission. He emphasized the importance of the Chinese market for the UK tourism industry and the opportunities it presents for both countries. De Bois believes that by fostering stronger ties with China, VisitBritain can drive economic growth and create jobs in the tourism sector.
The trade mission comes at a crucial time as the world recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While international travel has been significantly disrupted, there is optimism that the industry will rebound as restrictions ease and consumer confidence returns. VisitBritain’s efforts to strengthen ties with China will position the UK as a top destination for Chinese tourists once travel resumes fully.
As part of its ongoing strategy, VisitBritain has been actively engaging with the Chinese market for several years. They have been working closely with travel trade partners, airlines, and digital platforms to promote the UK as a must-visit destination. The upcoming trade mission is another step towards deepening these relationships and expanding the reach of UK tourism in China.
VisitBritain’s trade mission to China, guided by Nick de Bois CBE, holds great promise for the UK tourism industry. By showcasing the country’s unique offerings and fostering stronger partnerships, VisitBritain aims to attract more Chinese tourists and boost the economy. As travel gradually resumes, the UK looks forward to welcoming Chinese visitors and providing them with unforgettable experiences.
