“Incredible India: Tourism Promotion Seminar” Organized in Shanghai

Consulate General of India, Shanghai along with Shanghai Tourism Trade Association jointly organized a Seminar entitled “Incredible India: Tourism Promotion Seminar” earlier today in Shanghai to promote India Tourism. The seminar was attended inter-alia, by nearly 120 leading tourism/travel agencies from the Eastern China region, tourism association, tourism experts, and members of media.

2.While delivering the opening remarks Consul General Anil Kumar Rai indicated that India offers 36 UNESCO World Heritage sights, 10 bio-geographical zones, 26 biotech provinces and a range of touristic attractions all-round the year for Chinese travelers. India has seen a growth of over 18 percent in foreign tourist arrivals and with introduction of e-visa for over 162 nationalities there has been exponential growth in foreign tourists’ arrivals using e-visa. He mentioned that a round-the-clock helpline to provide assistance and support in 12 major languages, including Chinese, has been established and proved to be extremely helpful in addressing the issues faced by tourists in India.

3.The Consul General also invited the Chinese tourism industry to capitalize on “Make in India” initiative for investing in India’s tourism and hospitality sector and make use of the fast growing long term tourism potential of India. He assured of Consulate’s full support in this regard.

4.Secretary General of Shanghai Tourism and Trade Association Mr. Chen Xueyu, in his keynote address, highlighted the growing tourism interests between India and China. He opined that, given the thousand years of history and rich culture, India is becoming a preferred destination for Chinese tourists, whose number is increasing with the rise in income level.

5.Speaking on the occasion, the Fliggy representatives, a travel company from the Alibaba Group, emphasized upon the use of social media, technology, and other innovative methods for attracting Chinese tourists. They also offered to provide a unique experience platform for Indian tourism on Fliggy.  While making presentation on tourism attractions in India, travel agencies from India provided details of various touristic attractions and packages available for Chinese tourists.

6.During a Feedback session, many Chinese tourism agency representatives shared feedback received from Chinese tourists visiting India, and stated that the response has been very encouraging. They also emphasized that while India remains a destination to be explored to its full potential. Most of the Chinese travelers, who visit India once, tend to revisit many more times subsequently.

7.Earlier, a detailed presentation on Indian e-Visa Policy was also made by Consulate, and a Q&A Session was held to clarify others doubts raised by the stakeholders. There was wider appreciation amongst the Chinese participants about the e-visa facility for Chinese tourists. Upon conclusion of the interactive Q&A Session, B2B meetings were also held in an informal setting.

Shanghai

December 27, 2017