The number of mainland Chinese visitors to Macau is expected to recover to 91-100 per cent of the pre-pandemic level in 2024, representing a year-on-year hike of 33.9 per cent, according to a recent report released by the Asia Tourism Exchange Center (ATEC).
The 2024 Tourism Market Forecast for Hong Kong and Macau indicates that travel industry in the two SARs will see a rapid rebound this year, driven by support from mainland authorities, a series of cultural and tourism events in both regions, and the accelerated recovery of the aviation sector.
In the report, the research team highlights that the performing arts events held in Macau this year have contributed to the growth in visitor arrivals, citing that from January to May, mainland visitor arrivals surged by 62.3 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Furthermore, the report emphasises the efficacy of various promotional campaigns in boosting overall visitor arrivals to Macau, including the special travel offers for international visitors on air tickets, cross-border transport, hotel accommodation, dining, entertainment and show tickets.
Another survey conducted by ATEC reveals that the willingness of Macau residents to travel to the Chinese mainland has exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
This surge is attributed to convienient immigration procedures, efficient transport, and favourable exchange rates.
Mainland China is estimated to welcome at least 32.5 million visitor arrivals from Macau residents this year, reaching 121 per cent of the 2019 level.
Popular mainland travel destinations for Macau and Hong Kong residents include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Tibet, and Xinjiang.
