#China #Macao #Harbin #Heilongjiang #Global Tourism Economy

Successful Conclusion of the Global Tourism Economy Forum 2025

The Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) 2025 took place recently in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, marking a significant milestone as it was the first time the event was held outside of Macao. The 11th edition gathered industry leaders and experts globally to discuss sustainable tourism development, emphasizing the theme "New Productive Forces to Energize the Global Tourism Economy."

This year’s forum was not only a platform for networking but also served to enhance Macao's international prominence as a leading destination for tourism and leisure. Key figures in attendance included prominent political figures and leaders in the tourism industry, such as Ho Hau Wah, the Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of UN World Tourism Organization.

Setting the Stage for National Tourism Development

The forum aimed to highlight the potential for growth within China’s tourism sector. With representatives from various nations, the forum encouraged collaboration and innovative strategies to drive economic development in tourism. Tai Kin Ip, representing the Macao SAR, emphasized the importance of leveraging Macao's unique connectivity and resources to facilitate economic diversification through a clear developmental strategy.

Over a thousand delegates participated in discussions focusing on four critical pillars: ice and snow economy and industrial innovation, cultural empowerment and brand development, leadership in investment and project development, alongside cross-border collaboration opportunities. The rich resources and tourism attractions of both Heilongjiang and Macao were showcased, aiming to strengthen ties between the regions.

Innovations in Tourism and Leisure

A special session titled “Macao Investment Promotion in Tourism” was a highlight, presenting Macao's offerings to a broader audience. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, discussed ongoing efforts to foster a robust strategy of economic diversification, encouraging higher quality tourism experiences through the integration of various sectors into a cohesive “tourism plus” initiative.

The session allowed prominent representatives from Macao's integrated resorts and tourism businesses to share innovative practices that enrich the tourism and leisure industry in Macao, a testament to its reputation as a world-class destination.

Paving the Way for Sustainable Tourism

Since its inception in 2012, the GTEF has played a pivotal role in shaping international tourism cooperation, utilizing the advantages offered by China’s “One Country, Two Systems” policy to foster a diverse and functional platform for dialogue and collaboration. The completion of the GTEF 2025 in Heilongjiang, organized by the local government in cooperation with UN Tourism, reflects the successful fusion of tourism and economic discourse, marking a new chapter in Macao’s development into a global tourism hub.

In conclusion, the Global Tourism Economy Forum 2025 not only set the international stage for further cooperation and economic synergy between Macao and Heilongjiang but also illuminated new pathways for sustained growth in China’s tourism landscape, thereby defining the future of global tourism.