Travel Agents Optimistic as China Reopens Group Tours to Canada
Canadian travel agents are expressing cautious optimism following China’s decision to once again include Canada on its list of approved destinations for group tours. The move signals a potential resurgence in Chinese tourism, a sector substantially impacted by both the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent political tensions.
Prior to the pandemic, Chinese tourism was a major economic driver for many Canadian businesses. Mabel Wu, owner of Next Vacation Ltd. in Richmond, B.C., recalls a period of “glory times” where tour groups frequently patronized restaurants, frequently enough requesting expensive seafood like groupers, king crab, and lobsters without regard for price.
However, in 2023, China initially excluded canada from the list of over 100 countries approved for outbound group travel, citing concerns over allegations of Chinese foreign interference and a perceived rise in anti-Asian discrimination within Canada. While individual travel remained possible, the crucial group tour market was effectively shut down. This decision sparked fears within the Canadian tourism industry of considerable financial losses.
The recent resumption of group tours follows a meeting between Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Chinese vice Premier Liu Guoliang, and a handshake between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Chinese President Xi Jinping, events seen as a positive step towards rebuilding diplomatic relations.Chan, a tour operator who previously guided Chinese tourists through Canadian natural wonders and cities, believes this improved relationship will facilitate the promotion of travel packages.
Despite the encouraging news, travel agents identify remaining obstacles. Daniel Xu, executive director of Elite Forward travel company in Toronto, highlighted the lengthy visa application process as a deterrent for potential Chinese visitors. He urged the Canadian government to expedite visa processing to encourage increased travel.Xu also noted that the number of flights between China and Canada has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Xu previously led groups of up to 30 travellers, with popular destinations including Banff National park and Niagara Falls. He expressed a hopeful outlook, stating, ”It’s great news, and we will wait and see how things unfold.”
