The Pearl River Delta (PRD) Tourism Integration programme is a short-term plan recently introduced by Guangdong that seeks to enhance the co-operation between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau on leisure and tourism matters. One such initiative is to seek the co-operation between all parties regarding yacht traffic in the region (Read more on ‘Free Exercise’ Yachting for Macau, Zhongshan in this issue of eMTT). The framework agreement would facilitate breakthroughs in customs clearance, regulatory inspection, marina facilities, mutual recognition of skippers’ licences, regional yacht sailing planning policy, berthing, and the opening up of ‘multi-station’ tourist routes.

Cruises are also on the agenda. The PRD parties would promote and facilitate investment co-operation for the cruise business including promoting cruise information, and providing transit visa-free cruises. In addition, Guangdong will promote business cruise enterprises or individuals to establish cruise travel, development policies and measures promoting the development of the cruise industry.

Guangdong will also create a Hong Kong and Macau free trade zone, and via central government support permit Hong Kong and Macau-owned travel agencies to enjoy national treatment in terms of joint ventures, co-operation, individual and other forms of outbound travel business. The initiative would include overseas-owned travel agencies in Hong Kong and Macau in joint ventures with Chinese outbound travel businesses.

Central government support will also be solicited to allow international travellers entering Hong Kong and Macau to enjoy visa-free stays in the three pilot areas of Nansha, Qianhai in Shenzhen, and Hengqin in Zhuhai. Two duty-free shopping centres in Nansh and Hengqin are to serve as ‘shopping paradises’.