Macao to host Global Tourism Economy Forum in October

The Asia Tourism Trends Report will be issued during the forum period

The 5th edition of the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) will revolve around the theme 'The Growing Consumer Class, Rethinking and Reshaping the Future Tourism Landscape', with discussions zeroing in on how this rising independently minded, resourceful and tech-savvy group is more than ever the increasingly influential force of the tourism industry. The Forum will be held on the 15th and 16th October at Studio City.

GTEF is marking its fifth anniversary with two special partners: France as partner country and Beijing as partner city. France, as one of the world's favourite travel destinations will show at the Forum how the tourism industry can combine the past and the future, with multiple elements and creativity. Beijing, will showcase its 3,000 years of brilliant history as the capital of China in terms of both culture and economy, highlighting the characteristics of Chinese consumers.

This year's Forum will provide not only significant events but also present a series of innovative and inspirational sessions. In one such significant event – collaborating with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) on 'Face to Face' - Ministers and Private Sector CEOs, leaders and decision-makers in private corporations will primarily focus on 'Harnessing One Billion Opportunities'.

Trade leaders will share their understanding of Chinese consumers in 'Maximizing the Dualities of the Chinese Consumer' and 'Tourism and Technology – The Inseparable Duo'. Moreover, the Forum will introduce new sessions, which include 'Women's Leadership – The Softer Side of Leadership'; 'World Tourism Cities – Urban Tourism Consumption Revolution'; 'Investment Workshop – The Burgeoning Consumer Class: Investing in a New Era' and 'Youth Leadership Roundtable – Understanding the Millennial Consumer and the Social Engagement'.

During GTEF, UNWTO and the Global Tourism Economy Research Centre will issue the third UNWTO/GTERC Annual Report 2016 on Asia Tourism Trends. The report will offer an in-depth analysis and discussion of the growing consumer classes and global trend of tourism generated by investment in tourism. The report will also discuss the impact wrought by those elements. The Forum will also work as a platform to connect tourism and economic ministers, government officials, and world leading travel-related decision makers in addition to communicating and creating new business and co-operation opportunities.