The 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum took place in Macao, uniting government officials, international organization representatives, business leaders, and experts under the theme “Crisis • Resilience • Evolution – Building a Tourism Economy for a Shared Future.” The forum serves as a multilateral platform for high-level dialogue and cooperation in tourism and cultural sectors since its inception in 2012.
Global and Macao Tourism Growth Data
Global tourism witnessed a strong rebound, with 690 million cross-border trips recorded so far this year, a rise of three million compared to the same period last year. Last year, Macao surpassed 40 million visitor arrivals, marking a new milestone in
its tourism industry. The growth in international arrivals contrasts with ongoing worldwide economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.
Official Views on Tourism Quality and Sector Potential
Sam Hou-fai, Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, stated that the city’s tourism growth involves both expansion in numbers and enhanced quality, noting, “This is not just growth in numbers, but an improvement in quality.” UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais described the record international tourist arrivals as promising amid geopolitical challenges, emphasizing the tourism sector’s significant potential globally.
China’s Inclusive Tourism Development
Long Yongtu, former vice-minister of China’s Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation, highlighted inclusive tourism as
key to sector growth, with rural residents accounting for 20% of China’s tourists last year. This reflects broader participation from communities and a shift in travel demographics and patterns within China. The experience may provide valuable insights for the global tourism industry faced with uncertainties.
Global Tourism Sector Growth and Collaboration Needs
Global travel and tourism GDP increased by 4% last year, outpacing overall global economic growth of 2.8%. The sector represented approximately 10% of global GDP, with the Asia-Pacific region leading growth at 8%. Gloria Guevara, president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council, called for stronger collaboration and policy implementation among stakeholders to
maintain momentum, stating, “Working together, implementing the best policies to move forward.”
China-Spain Connectivity and Tourism Relations
Spain served as the partner country at the forum, with Miguel Sanz, director-general of Spain’s national tourism agency Turespana, reporting a rapid increase in air capacity between Spain and China. In 2026, weekly flights between the two countries rose by more than 40% to total 87. Spain received 800,000 Chinese visitors in 2025, who spent $2.5 billion during their trips. To accommodate growing demand, Spain has enhanced its visa-processing capacity in China, reducing the processing time to less than a week.
Hainan Province as Featured Region and Cooperation Opportunities
Hainan province, this year’s forum featured region,
promoted cultural integration and cooperation opportunities with Macao. Bateer, executive vice-governor of Hainan, referenced Macao’s experience of blending Chinese and Western cultural influences over centuries. He invited international partners to explore investment and travel opportunities at the Hainan Free Trade Port to support an open and inclusive tourism economy.
