Su Zhigang Makes History as First Chinese Inducted into IAAPA Hall of Fame

Su Zhigang Makes History at IAAPA Hall of Fame

On November 17, 2025, the prestigious IAAPA Hall of Fame welcomed its first Chinese inductee, Su Zhigang, the Chairman of Chimelong Group. The ceremony took place during the 'IAAPA Legends: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair' in Orlando, Florida. This momentous occasion marks a watershed moment not only for Su but also for the Chinese cultural tourism industry.

A Milestone Achievement

Su Zhigang's recognition comes on the heels of his receipt of The Buzz Price Award from the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) in 2024. This accolade further underscores his global influence and the rise of Chimelong as a significant player in international cultural tourism. Founded in 1918, IAAPA represents over 7,500 members from more than 100 countries, solidifying its status as the largest professional association for the attractions industry worldwide. The Hall of Fame, established in 1990, is one of the highest honors attainable in this realm.

During the event, Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA, praised Su's visionary leadership, stating that he has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of Asia's attractions industry. Wahl emphasized Su’s commitment to ecological preservation and the seamless integration of tourism and entertainment. Notably, Su is among only eight individuals globally to have received both the Buzz Price Award and the IAAPA Hall of Fame Award, highlighting his unique status within the industry.

Humble Roots to Global Recognition

In his emotional acceptance speech, Su expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his country. He acknowledged how China's reform and opening-up policies provided him, a former farmer, the opportunity to embark on an entrepreneurial journey that eventually led to his current standing. His commitment to lifelong learning drives his passion for continually enhancing his business endeavors.

Su stated, “I will use this opportunity to further strengthen collaboration with international peers and actively introduce advanced technologies and management expertise.” His aspiration is to uplift China’s cultural tourism sector to new heights, a clear message of ambition and hope.

A Legacy of Innovation

Born into a farming family in Guangdong, Su Zhigang's trajectory in the tourism industry began in 1989 with a modest restaurant. In 1997, he took a significant leap by founding China’s first privately-run safari park, which laid the groundwork for Chimelong's evolution over the past three decades. His dedication to cultural tourism has birthed three world-class resort destinations: Chimelong Guangzhou Resort, Chimelong Hengqin Resort, and Chimelong Qingyuan Resort, drawing millions of visitors globally every year.

Chimelong's brand is marked by innovation, boasting 17 Guinness World Records and numerous awards from TEA and IAAPA. The group's success reflects a broader trend, signaling the potential and capability of China's cultural tourism brands on the global stage.

Looking to the Future

Looking ahead, Su Zhigang remains optimistic about the future development of Chimelong Group. He envisions a strategy focused on continuous innovation, exploring new business models, and integrating cutting-edge technologies to create theme parks that are unique and beloved worldwide. Su's induction into the IAAPA Hall of Fame not only celebrates his past achievements but also serves as a springboard for future ventures that aim to captivate hearts on a global scale. As homegrown brands continue to rise, Su's journey offers inspiration and a promising outlook for China's tourism industry.