According to the World Travel Market’s Global Travel Report from 2024 to 2033, the number of Chinese households with the purchasing power to embark on international travel is set to roughly double. This surge is attributed to rising incomes and an expanding middle class, which is expected to add over 60 million households capable of affording leisure travel.
Despite this significant growth, this burgeoning “traveling class” will represent only 2.3 percent of China’s vast population, highlighting the enormous potential for future expansion in the Chinese market.
Between 2024 and 2033, Chinese outbound spending is projected to surpass that of other major markets, becoming increasingly important for many international destinations. In the same period, China is also forecasted to grow as a tourist destination. By 2033, China’s inbound tourism revenue could more than double compared to 2024.
As China evolves both as a tourism destination and a source market, its tourism sector will not only be an essential contributor to GDP growth but also play a crucial role in strengthening people-to-people exchanges between China and the rest of the world. In the context of rising geopolitical tensions, such exchanges are invaluable. China’s rich cultural heritage, diverse must-see attractions, retail hotspots, and natural and historical sites offer unique experiences for travelers worldwide.
The rapid growth of China’s travel and tourism sector will serve as a conduit for cross-cultural interactions between Chinese nationals and people from other parts of the world, contributing to mutual understanding and fostering peaceful relations.
As China prepares to celebrate the Spring Festival, commencing on February 10, 2024—the biggest traditional festival in China—the country has opened its doors to foreign tourists. The celebration has been joined by countries around the globe. Iconic landmarks worldwide, including the Empire State Building, the Tokyo Tower, and the London Eye, are set to light up in red and be adorned with Chinese cultural motifs to welcome the Year of the Dragon.
Additionally, the 78th United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution by consensus to list the Spring Festival as a UN floating holiday. These efforts demonstrate the growing international appeal and profound influence of Chinese culture—a major driver of growth in China’s tourism sector.
