WTCF releases annual report

WTCF Deputy Secretary-General Li Baochun introduced the background and influence of research on world tourism cities’ development.

The World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) released its new report in Beijing, on January 5.

The Annual Report on Development of World Tourism Cities 2015 is an in-depth study of international tourism. It has three highlights: tourists’ review of service quality, evaluation of tourism’s contribution to the urban economy, and the influence of tourism big data on research and evaluation of world tourism cities.

In order to establish global industrial standards and a multi-channel data collection mechanism, the report will guide member cities in improving services facilities and other areas through a comprehensive analysis of the tourism industry’s development. In addition, WTCF will further enhance its online media and launch more promotions and innovations,  aiming to reduce travel costs and eliminate geographical and cultural barriers.

At the conference, WTCF Deputy Secretary-General Li Baochun introduced the background and influence of research on world tourism cities’ development. Zhang Hui, chief expert of the the research group, showed the research results and explained the indices. Wei Xiaoan, director of the WTCF Expert Committee, Wang Dingguo, deputy director-general of Chongqing Tourism Administration and Qiu Weijun, overseas director of Ctrip, delivered speeches, and a panel discussion on “Elevating the Quality of Tourism Cities” was held.

A panel discussion on “Elevating the Quality of Tourism Cities” was held.

The World Tourism Cities Federation is a non-profit non-governmental international organization initiated by Beijing and voluntarily formed by Berlin, Los Angeles, Barcelona and other tourism cities and institutions. The federation’s inaugural conference was held on Sep. 15, 2012 in Beijing. With “Better City Life through Tourism” as the core concept, it is committed to promoting exchanges and cooperation between members to develop the market and share experience. Its membership and international influence are growing constantly. There are now 100 city members and 51 non-city members.

Delegates from tourism cities, travel agencies, experts and local media were also present.