Rumors of a decline in mainland Chinese tourists persist; Taiwan Tourism Bureau clarifies: both group and independent travelers are increasing

▲ Mainland Chinese tourists entering Taiwan Taoyuan Airport. (Photo / Reporter Chen Shichang)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Despite rumors of a decline in mainland Chinese tourists, the Beijing Office of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau announced figures on the 11th to clarify that from January to March, both group and independent travelers increased. Some mainland industry players also said they have not received any directives to reduce tour groups;The perception of fewer mainland tourists may likely be due to a shift from island-hopping tours to more in-depth travel, resulting in fewer visitors at scenic spots compared to before.

On the 11th, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau announced the evaluation results for outstanding mainland Chinese tour operators for travel to Taiwan in Beijing. Shenzhen China International Travel Service, under Wanda Travel Industry, won dual championships for “High-End Quality Group Tours to Taiwan” and “In-Depth Tours to Taiwanese Indigenous Villages.” Yang Rui-zong, Director of the Beijing Office of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, presented the awards on behalf of Chairman Xie Weijun.

In response to the recent widespread rumors of a decline in mainland Chinese tourists, Yang Rui-zong also gave a special explanation, pointing out thatfrom January 1 to March 10 this year, the number of group tourists was over 380,000, an increase of 88.66% compared to the same period last year; additionally, according to statistics from the National Immigration Agency,in January this year, the number of independent mainland Chinese travelers exceeded 150,000, an increase of 41.94% compared to the same period last year.

▲ Mainland Chinese tourists enjoy sightseeing near Taipei 101. (Photo / Reporter Yao Nan-hung)

Mo Yueming, Vice President of Wanda Group, said,There are some rumors, but this may just be a form of concern. So far, no official channels have issued any directives to reduce tour groups. Based on analysis, the perception of fewer mainland tourists may likely be due to a shift from island-hopping tours to more in-depth travel, resulting in fewer visitors at scenic spots compared to before.

However, Mo Yueming also pointed out, “I thinkhow things develop in the future will depend more on how Taiwan’s leaders view cross-strait relations.” Yang Rui-zong similarly stated that although the current number of tourists traveling to Taiwan is on an upward trend, the cross-strait atmosphere and relationship developments after May 20th will still influence mainland Chinese tourists’ willingness and numbers to visit Taiwan.