Minister’s visit to strengthen tourism links with China
Hon Chris Tremain
Associate Minister of Tourism
8 September 2013
Media Statement
Minister’s visit to strengthen tourism
links with China
Associate Tourism
Minister Chris Tremain is visiting China this week with a
particular focus on building a closer working relationship
with the China National Tourism Administration.
The Minister will visit Guangzhou, Shanghai,
Beijing and Hong Kong from 9-13 September.
“The
China-New Zealand tourism relationship is a high priority,
with China now our second largest source of overseas
visitors,” says Mr Tremain.
“Meetings with the
China National Tourism Administration, and with regional
tourism bureaus, will be an opportunity to discuss recent
initiatives to encourage Chinese visitors to New Zealand,
such as streamlined visa processes and a focus on visitor
safety.
“My visit also comes just prior to a new
tourism law coming into effect in China. The new law
provides outbound Chinese tourists with greater consumer
protection by prohibiting the sale of below-cost shopping
tours.
“While in China I will be emphasising our
commitment to working constructively with respect to the new
law, and gaining insights into its impact on visitors to New
Zealand.
“I will also be meeting with key airline
partners and some of China’s premier travel sellers, who
have built close relationships with Tourism New
Zealand.”
ENDS