Chinese visitors could boost tourism

Ireland should be targeting affluent Chinese holidaymakers, a move which could have significant potential for the tourism industry here.

That’s according to the keynote speaker at a tourism seminar which will be held in Shannon next week.

Jim Paul, who has responsibility for China in his capacity as head of developing Markets for Tourism Ireland, said: “Shopping, dining and sightseeing are the three most popular activities for affluent Chinese people travelling abroad. Visiting historical places and theme parks are next in line for outbound Chinese tourists.”

Mr Paul will be the main speaker at a Shannon Chamber of Commerce seminar “Chinese Tourism on the Move — Targeting the Affluent Chinese Consumer”. The event is supported by Shannon Development, Shannon Airport Authority, Tourism Ireland and the Shannon College of Hotel Management where the event will be hosted.

Speaking ahead of the seminar, Mr Paul stressed that China is an increasingly important market, with significant potential in the medium to long-term for Irish tourism interests.

He said: “The granting of Approved Destination Status for Ireland and the UK in recent years, plus the Irish Government’s visa waiver scheme enabling Chinese visitors who hold a valid short-term UK visa to travel freely to Ireland, have made travel to Ireland much simpler and less expensive.”