City of Sydney seminars to help businesses understand Chinese tourism

With China becoming one of the largest sources of inbound tourism for Sydney and Australia, it’s crucial small business owners develop a better understanding of the needs of this group. With this in mind, City of Sydney and Asialink Business have joined forces to deliver a series of seminars designed to help SMBs adapt and grow with the market.

The program will offer masterclasses on using digital platforms to engage with Chinese visitors, discovering the best products and services for the market and exploring new ways to boost revenue.

As Chinese tourists visit Sydney in record numbers, Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the seminars will offer local businesses increased access to this important market.

“As a global city, our relationships with other countries such as China are vital to our economic and cultural life,” the Lord Mayor said. “With so many visitors from China gracing our shores, it’s important for our businesses to understand their needs.

Moore said the seminars will provide an invaluable opportunity for businesses to learn from and draw on the knowledge of the many local and international experts in the area. The events will bring together around 50 business executives, entrepreneurs and peak bodies to hear from experts on the trends, opportunities and cultural nuances driving an industry worth $11.5 billion to the Australian economy.

Nick Henderson, China expert and director of Asialink’s business hub China Practice, will host the sessions featuring industry professionals from China and Australia.

“Local enterprises can see their businesses soar when they learn how to best engage with this growing market.

“Research shows that Chinese travellers are drawn to our natural surroundings, coastal beauty and great food offerings. Sydney has such a broad offering to appeal to the Chinese tourist, and this series will help businesses maximise the visitor experience. We’ll share knowledge and insights to help businesses in the city launch and grow their China-focused offerings.”

The China tourism masterclasses cost $20 each or $50 to attend all three. The seminar topics are:

Chinese Social Media and Digital Landscape –Tuesday 26 February 4.30pm at Sydney Town Hall House.
Panellists include:

Peter Shelley, Managing Director, Australian Tourism Export Council
Saxon Booth, Director of Business Development, Dragon Trail Interactive
Janeen Rees, Rees International
Lin Zhang, Regional Director – Oceania, Ctrip Global Hotel Business Departme

Getting Products and Services Right for Chinese Travelers – Thursday 28 March, 4.30pm, Sydney Town Hall House 483 George Street, Sydney
Panellists include: