Australia used to be a magnet for Chinese tourists. But visa conditions have somewhat taken away that advantage.
In contrast, some Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia have taken advantage of cheaper prices, as well as relaxed visa policies, to attract large numbers of tourists from China.
Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia have seen a surge in tourists from the Chinese market thanks to visa exemptions.
Johnny Nee, director of Easy Going Travel Services in Western Australia, said that during the recent Lunar New Year, his company's business only recovered 40% compared to before the Covid-19 pandemic. In contrast, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia saw a surge in the number of tourists from the Chinese market, accompanied by spending levels exceeding the pre-pandemic period.
This change is due to the visa exemption policy and the advantage of cheaper travel costs, food and entertainment services, etc. This is completely suitable in the "belt tightening" situation of the Chinese people.
Chinese tourists check-in in Thailand.
According to Mr. Nee, in Australia, costs for foreign tourists, including airfare, accommodation, food services, travel, etc., have increased by at least 20% compared to before the pandemic.
"China's economic situation is not so certain and Chinese tourists are considering prices. This means they will prefer to go to places that are easy to get to and have a not-too-bad travel experience," he said.
According to data from the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), the number of Chinese tourists coming to the Land of Kangaroos during the Lunar New Year 2024 will account for about 26% of total international visitors, down nearly half from the level of more than 50% in the pre-pandemic period. Australian inbound tour operators have reported revenue in 2023 that is up to 50% lower than in 2019.
