Tanzania and China have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector following high-level discussions between Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ashatu Kijaji, and China’s Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gao Zheng, held during the 126th Session of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Executive Council in Toledo, Spain.
The discussions focused on enhancing economic diplomacy through tourism, with both sides exploring practical strategies to increase tourist arrivals, attract investment, and expand the use of modern technology in developing the tourism industry.
Dr. Kijaji reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to working closely with China to expand opportunities in the sector, noting that China remains one of the most important strategic source markets for Tanzania’s tourism industry.
She said the country is ready to deepen cooperation in order to boost visitor numbers and unlock new investment potential.
Both leaders also emphasized the importance of strengthening skills development and professional exchange programmes between tourism stakeholders in Tanzania and China.
They noted that such cooperation would help improve service delivery, build capacity, and enhance competitiveness in the global tourism market.
In addition, the two sides agreed to continue consultations aimed at identifying practical areas of cooperation.
These include joint tourism promotion initiatives, strategic investment projects, and coordinated efforts to market tourism products to international audiences.
The talks are expected to contribute to increased tourist arrivals, higher foreign exchange earnings from tourism, and stronger diplomatic relations between Tanzania and China, as both countries continue to view the sector as a key driver of economic growth and cultural exchange.
