Visit Maldives Returns to the Spotlight: MMPRC Showcases the Sunny Side of Life at ITB China 2023
Thursday 14th of September 2023
After a prolonged hiatus, the Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), also known as Visit Maldives, is set to shine at ITB China 2023. Taking place from September 12th to 14th, 2023, at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center, this event is a remarkable milestone as it marks the first physical B2B trade fair in China post-pandemic. MMPRC is proudly participating as the official Island Travel Partner.
With the resilience of the Maldives tourism industry and the easing of global travel restrictions, MMPRC has rallied 64 representatives from 33 companies to join forces in promoting the Maldives within the Chinese market at ITB China 2023. This event is a significant step forward as it signifies MMPRC's first physical participation in a tourism event in China since the world reopened its borders.
ITB China 2023 holds a special place as one of the largest B2B exclusive trade shows dedicated to the Chinese travel market. It serves as a dynamic platform bringing together industry specialists from around the globe. Furthermore, it offers invaluable networking opportunities to connect with potential agents and buyers from key source markets.
The Visit Maldives stand at ITB China is thoughtfully designed to provide attendees with an authentic glimpse of the "Sunny Side of Life." Visitors can look forward to a diverse range of activities, including meetings with Maldivian travel trade experts. The spotlight shines brightly on unique Maldivian experiences with activities like personalized calligraphy bookmark creation and a photo backdrop featuring libaas and feyli props for that perfect Maldivian-style snapshot.
MMPRC is also taking advantage of ITB China to bolster its brand presence in the Chinese market. They will promote Visit Maldives' Weibo and WeChat social media handles to engage with a broader audience. Attendees can access press packs, containing comprehensive information about Visit Maldives and its co-exhibitors, along with promotional materials.
One exciting highlight of the event is a special raffle scheduled for the final day. Two lucky winners will secure free holidays to the Maldives, courtesy of The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives, and Kihaa Maldives.
As the Island Travel Partner, Visit Maldives enjoys the privilege of hosting a Networking Lunch—an exclusive gathering of 100 hosted buyers, meticulously curated by ITB China organizers. This event promises significant networking opportunities and insightful discussions.
China has been a pivotal market for the Maldives tourism industry. The resumption of direct flights from China to the Maldives in January 2023 marked a crucial step toward recovery. As of September 5, 2023, the Maldives has welcomed 123,824 arrivals from China, making it the third-largest source market. These numbers are steadily climbing, approaching pre-pandemic levels.
Even during the border closures, MMPRC conducted relentless marketing activities in China to keep the Maldives as a top-of-mind destination for when borders reopened. The country has already achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing one million tourist arrivals this year, underscoring the astounding success of the Maldivian tourism sector. With a target of welcoming 1.8 million tourists this year, the Maldives' tourism resurgence is in full swing, and ITB China 2023 plays a pivotal role in this journey.