Australia has announced that it will resume the visa process for Chinese group travelers, marking a significant step towards reviving the country’s tourism industry. The Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell, revealed that visa processing for the Approved Destination Status (ADS) travel scheme has recommenced after a long hiatus caused by the global pandemic.
Farrell expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, describing it as a major boost for Australia’s hard-working tourism operators. He emphasized the collaborative efforts between the government and the tourism industry to facilitate the return of Chinese group tours, including the establishment of relevant agreements. The minister further added that Australia is looking forward to welcoming more Chinese visitors to experience the breathtaking scenery and world-class tourism experiences the country has to offer.
China was previously one of Australia’s leading sources of international tourists, contributing significantly to the economy. In 2019, around 1.4 million Chinese visitors traveled to Australia, according to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). ADS visa holders alone spent approximately 581 million Australian dollars (373.3 million U.S. dollars) in the country, which accounted for almost one-third of the total expenditure by Chinese visitors.
Recently, China announced it would reinstate group tours to an expanded list of international destinations, including Japan, Britain, the United States, and Australia. As social distancing protocols are gradually lifted worldwide, the travel industry is experiencing a swift recovery. Travel operators, hotels, and airlines are witnessing unprecedented growth, marking a positive development after the sector endured the brunt of the pandemic for over three years.
The resumption of the visa process for Chinese group travelers is a significant move that will not only boost Australia’s tourism industry but also strengthen ties between the two nations. As travel begins to regain momentum, it offers hope for a brighter future for the global tourism sector.
