Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives), together with 45 travel and tourism companies and 100 delegates, is showcasing the brighter side of life at ITB China 2024. Maldives is the “Official Partner Destination” of the prestigious event, which will be held from 27 to 29 May at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre in the People’s Republic of China.
ITB China is one of the leading exclusive trade fairs focusing on the Chinese travel market. The event brings together top select buyers from Greater China and Chinese industry professionals from around the world, offering networking events and a unique state-of-the-art matchmaking system to enhance and maximize business opportunities at the fair.
MMPRC’s participation as an Official Destination Partner of ITB China 2024 will enhance Maldives’ presence in the Chinese market and travel industry. It will foster trade and media linkages, promote tourism growth, and facilitate the distribution of the latest Maldivian tourism products through one-on-one interactions with regional and global travel partners. Additionally, ITB China 2024 will provide a key platform for industry partners to showcase their individual products and establishments to this important market.
Maldives’ booth at ITB China 2024 aims to showcase the rich traditions and vibrant colors of the Maldives and give a taste of the unique experiences that await travelers who journey to the brighter side of life. Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in productive one-on-one meetings with key travel industry representatives from the Maldives tourism sector and other strategic partners in the industry. Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic cultural performances and Dhivehi calligraphy while savoring delicious local cuisine. MMPRC will also be conducting in-person media interviews at the booth, further enhancing Maldives’ presence in China’s travel industry.
Visit Maldives is hosting several events on the sidelines of ITB China 2024, most notably the Maldives Media Meet press conference on the first day. The media meet will engage with representatives from leading Chinese and international media outlets and provide updates on the destination, exciting upcoming events and policies related to tourism. The media meet will also see the signing of an MOU between MMPRC and Weixin Pay, strengthening cooperation between the organisations.
The Chinese market is a key source market for the Maldives, having reclaimed its top market position after the resumption of direct flights last year. MMPRC is leveraging a year-round marketing strategy encompassing various initiatives to target this lucrative market. As of May 22 this year, the Maldives had welcomed 95,952 Chinese tourists, accounting for 11.2% of the total market.
As part of its efforts to maintain its presence as a tourist destination and increase arrivals, MMPRC has planned several marketing activities, including collaborative campaigns with prominent tourism stakeholders, media outreach tours, targeted marketing through major publications and magazines, strategic outdoor advertising placements, and joint marketing programs with major airlines.