Tourism leaders from across Asia and the Pacific recently met to plan the sector’s strategic restart and recovery even as borders remain closed throughout the region.
At the 33rd Joint meeting of the World Tourism Organization’s Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and its Commission for South Asia leaders gathered to address how they can accelerate the recovery of tourism in one of the hardest hit regions that saw a 95 per cent drop in international arrivals in the first five months of 2021.
Coordinated restart and recovery
With UNWTO data also showing that this region continues to have the largest proportion of destinations closed to tourists, the Member States addressed the phased lifting on travel restrictions and the introduction of travel corridors within the region. Looking ahead, mMembers also agreed on the importance of upgrading the skills of the tourism labour force, as well as embracing innovation and digital transformation.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The Asia and Pacific region has a proven record as a dynamic tourism destination. With the right policy measures and strong coordination, destinations can start safely welcoming back international visitors, thereby allowing tourism to deliver on its potential as a driver of recovery and inclusive growth.”
