HAINAN – The Tourism Authority of Thailand is participating in the China International Travel Mart (CITM) 2025 in Haikou, Hainan province, with Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Deputy Governor for Asia and the South Pacific Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai leading the Thai delegation. Thailand is attending the event as the Guest Country of Honor, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China.
The fair runs from December 19 to 21 and is China’s largest tourism trade event. It is being hosted in Haikou for the first time, highlighting Hainan’s growing role as a southern gateway for China’s tourism sector and a key link to ASEAN markets. The location provides Thailand with access to high-spending segments, including millennials, families, and wellness-oriented travelers.
Thailand is presenting its tourism offerings through a 300-square-meter national pavilion that combines business meetings with consumer engagement. Activities include cultural performances, traditional Thai massage demonstrations, handicraft workshops, Muay Thai displays, and fashion presentations, while also promoting travel readiness and visitor services ahead of the year-end and Chinese New Year travel period.
On the sidelines of the event, TAT is signing a letter of intent with the Haikou Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports Bureau and Tongcheng Travel Holdings to expand cooperation on tourism promotion and route connectivity. The authority is also holding networking sessions with Chinese tour operators and airlines, including Hainan Airlines and 9Air, and attending a reception hosted by the Hainan Provincial Government.
China remains Thailand’s second-largest source market in 2025, with more than 4.3 million arrivals recorded through mid-December. Chinese visitors average 8.5 days per trip and spend about 54,230 baht per person, favoring destinations such as Bangkok, Chonburi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. (NNT)
