Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang province, is preparing to become the center of global tourism dialogue as it welcomes the 2025 Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) from December 15 to 17. With more than 1,000 participants expected from over 30 countries across five continents, this prestigious gathering reinforces Harbin’s emergence as an international tourism powerhouse. Under the theme “New Quality Productive Forces: Powering the Global Tourism Economy,” the Forum will explore future-oriented strategies that support sustainable growth, technological innovation, investment, and global cooperation.
For the first time since its establishment in 2012, GTEF will be held outside Macao—marking a defining moment in the Forum’s history and showcasing Harbin’s rising global stature. The decision to bring the event to Heilongjiang highlights China’s transformation into a high-quality, year-round tourism destination with increasingly diversified offerings.
A Global Tourism Platform with Growing Influence
Since its inception, GTEF has evolved into one of the world’s foremost platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and partnership in the tourism sector. It has welcomed more than 14,000 participants from over 90 countries and regions, enabling connections among governments, private-sector leaders, investors, and tourism innovators. Over the years, the Forum has promoted cultural exchange, strengthened regional branding, and facilitated investment opportunities across Asia and beyond.
By hosting GTEF 2025, Harbin is set to broaden this global impact. The choice reflects both the city’s distinctive charm and Heilongjiang’s rapid tourism transformation. Once known primarily for its winter attractions, the province is now a full-season tourism destination offering cultural experiences, eco-adventures, wellness retreats, and sports tourism throughout the year.
Heilongjiang’s Rise as an All-Season Global Destination
Harbin’s hosting of the Forum underscores Heilongjiang’s successful pivot from a winter-centric market to a year-round tourism economy. The province’s dual “100-day tourism promotion campaigns”—one highlighting its summer offerings, the other promoting its world-famous ice-and-snow attractions—have significantly expanded its appeal.
These efforts have yielded remarkable results. In 2024, Heilongjiang recorded:
- 282 million domestic tourist visits, up 29.1%
- 370.12 billion yuan in total tourism revenue, rising 67.1%
- 1.2 million international arrivals, up 95.4%
- 13.44 billion yuan in inbound revenue, an increase of 101.5%
These figures affirm that Heilongjiang is not only attracting more visitors but also offering higher-value, more competitive tourism experiences on par with global destinations.
The province’s diverse assets—ranging from vast forest reserves and thermal springs to heritage districts and adventure sports landscapes—position it as a top contender in China’s emerging tourism innovations.
A Forum Built on Innovation, Investment, and Global Collaboration
The 2025 Forum’s agenda is specifically designed to align with Heilongjiang’s tourism ambitions. Discussions and activities will focus on four major pillars that reflect the province’s development strategy:
- Ice-Snow Economy & Industrial Innovation
Exploring new winter sports industries, digital tourism models, and experience-driven attractions. - Cultural Empowerment & Brand Building
Strengthening cultural identity, storytelling, and international tourism branding. - Investment Leadership & Project Development
Promoting investment matchmaking, project innovation, and cross-regional collaboration. - Cross-Border Collaboration & Cooperation Opportunities
Encouraging global partnerships to expand tourism resources and support shared development.
These thematic pillars aim to accelerate the integration of Heilongjiang into the global tourism economy while reinforcing its position as a center for cutting-edge tourism innovation.
Engaging Programs and Cultural Immersion for Global Delegates
Participants at GTEF 2025 will experience a rich three-day program featuring opening and closing ceremonies, keynote addresses, policy-driven roundtables, and industry-focused discussions. An investment promotion session dedicated to Heilongjiang will provide opportunities for project development, partnerships, and resource exchange.
Beyond the professional agenda, the Forum offers international guests an immersive cultural experience in Harbin. Visitors will explore the city’s renowned winter landmarks, including its celebrated ice-and-snow attractions, riverside parks, and architectural heritage blending Russian and Chinese influences. Delegates will also visit eco-tourism destinations and participate in curated cultural events designed to highlight the richness of local traditions.
These cultural touchpoints showcase the province’s transformation into a comprehensive tourism destination that combines natural beauty, seasonal diversity, and cultural authenticity.
Driving Sustainability and Long-Term Tourism Growth
GTEF 2025 places strong emphasis on sustainability, reflecting global priorities and China’s national vision for high-quality development. The Forum aims to promote tourism models that enhance community well-being, protect natural ecosystems, modernize tourism infrastructure, and support the digital transformation of the industry.
Heilongjiang’s recent tourism performance demonstrates the effectiveness of strategic planning, investment in new industries, and commitment to sustainable growth. The province serves as a blueprint for regions seeking to balance economic opportunity with environmental preservation and cultural stewardship.
Harbin Positioned as a Global Tourism Innovator
As preparations for the 2025 Global Tourism Economy Forum move forward, Harbin is stepping confidently onto the world stage. The Forum highlights the city’s emergence as a global symbol of innovation, collaboration, and tourism excellence. It positions Heilongjiang as a strategic hub for year-round tourism and underscores China’s growing influence in shaping the future of the global travel economy.
By connecting international stakeholders with regional opportunities, GTEF 2025 is poised to catalyze a new era of creativity, investment, and sustainable development—making Harbin a model for the next generation of global tourism destinations.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
