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China’s travel and tourism industry is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic growth in 2025, as the sector continues to surge back to life following the global pandemic. This rapid recovery and expansion mark a new era for China, positioning it as one of the most dynamic and influential tourism markets worldwide. The country’s tourism industry, once hit hard by global travel restrictions and lockdown measures, has quickly rebounded and is expected to contribute a record-breaking amount to China’s economy this year.
According to a recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), China’s travel and tourism sector is projected to generate a staggering ¥13.7 trillion (roughly €1.7 trillion) in economic output in 2025. This growth represents an impressive 10% increase over pre-pandemic levels, signaling that the sector has not only recovered but is thriving at an unprecedented pace. The tourism industry’s contribution to China’s economy reflects its increasing importance as a driver of growth, with the sector expected to support approximately 83 million jobs, further solidifying its position as a key employment generator within the nation.
A significant portion of this financial surge is expected to come from international tourism, with spending by foreign visitors projected to rise by nearly ¥33 billion—13% higher than the levels seen in 2019. This increase in international visitor spending highlights China’s growing appeal as a travel destination for tourists around the globe. The country’s strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and world-class facilities are all contributing factors that continue to draw tourists from every corner of the world. The strong recovery of international tourism is expected to not only boost China’s tourism revenue but also enhance its standing as a global leader in the travel industry.
In addition to the growth in international tourism, China’s domestic travel market is seeing a robust resurgence. Domestic spending is forecast to increase by over ¥1.1 trillion, reaching a remarkable ¥7 trillion in total. This surge in domestic tourism spending underscores the importance of local travelers in China’s overall tourism success. The country’s vast population, coupled with a growing middle class and an increasing interest in domestic travel, has made China’s internal tourism market a significant contributor to the sector’s overall growth. Chinese travelers are increasingly exploring their own country, driving demand for both leisure and business travel, and supporting a wide array of tourism-related industries, from transportation and accommodation to food services and local attractions.
The growing strength of both international and domestic tourism highlights the dual engines that are driving the sector’s expansion. For international visitors, China offers an incredible array of experiences, from iconic cultural landmarks such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to natural wonders like Zhangjiajie and the Yellow Mountains. Additionally, China’s urban centers, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, continue to be major draws for business travelers, as well as leisure tourists interested in modern cityscapes, shopping, and entertainment.
Meanwhile, China’s vast and diverse domestic tourism market is expanding rapidly, driven by an increasing interest in exploring the country’s regional and lesser-known destinations. Domestic tourism in China has been growing steadily in recent years, and the trend has been amplified by the pandemic, as more Chinese citizens turn to domestic destinations in the absence of international travel opportunities. The government’s efforts to promote regional tourism and infrastructure development have also played a key role in fueling the domestic tourism boom. The rise in domestic tourism spending also reflects the growing sophistication and willingness of Chinese travelers to invest in quality experiences, ranging from luxury resorts and fine dining to guided tours and immersive cultural experiences.
This period of growth for China’s travel and tourism sector is not just an economic milestone but a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the industry. In recent years, China has made strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, including the development of high-speed rail networks, expanded airports, and upgraded hotel accommodations. These improvements have enhanced the overall travel experience for both international and domestic visitors, making it easier, more convenient, and more enjoyable for tourists to explore the country. As the sector continues to recover and expand, China’s tourism industry is well-positioned to capitalize on both its domestic strengths and its growing appeal to international markets.
The future looks bright for China’s travel and tourism sector. With the nation’s increasing role as a global tourism powerhouse, both international visitors and domestic travelers are expected to continue driving demand for new experiences, accommodations, and services. As China solidifies its position as a tourism leader, the government and private sector alike are likely to continue fostering innovation and expanding opportunities within the industry. From eco-tourism initiatives and sustainable travel practices to the development of new cultural and entertainment offerings, China’s tourism market is expected to become even more diverse and enticing in the years to come.
This rapid and sustained growth of the travel and tourism sector not only provides an economic boost but also helps to foster cultural exchange, strengthen international relations, and showcase China’s rich history and traditions. As the world recovers from the pandemic, China’s tourism resurgence is a shining example of the sector’s resilience and the key role it plays in shaping the global travel landscape.
