Representatives of member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations met up with their counterparts from China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea at the 48th ASEAN Plus Three National Tourism Organisations Meeting on Tuesday, 27th January.
Held at the Nustar Hotel Cebu, this year’s meeting highlighted the growing impact of cooperation between ASEAN member states and their Northeast Asian partners on regional tourism.
The 48th ASEAN Plus Three meeting aims to reinforce ASEAN Plus Three tourism collaboration and support the sector’s recovery post-pandemic. Hironobu Nara, deputy commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency, chaired the meeting attended by tourism officials from ASEAN, China, Japan, and Korea.
Collaboration is Critical
Verna C Buensuceso, undersecretary at the Philippine Department of Tourism, emphasized the significance of sustained tourism partnerships. She declared, “Our partnership is not just collaboration; it is a vital alliance that highlights the profound role of tourism as a catalyst for unity and mutual prosperity.”
Buensuceso further encouraged member states to utilize the meeting to commit to tourism cooperation and safeguard the region’s cultural heritage and natural assets.
North Asian Travelers Boost Recovery in Southeast Asia
Buensuceso reported consistent growth in arrivals from China, Japan, and Korea through 2024, significantly aiding Southeast Asia’s tourism recovery. By the end of 2024, ASEAN welcomed over 20 million arrivals from China, 9 million from Korea, and 3 million from Japan.
She highlighted that tourism remains a pivotal sector driving the ASEAN economy, promoting cultural interaction and interregional diplomacy.
Key to collaboration is the ASEAN Plus Three Tourism Cooperation Work Plan, which facilitates dialogue and joint action. This framework has allowed member states to tackle shared challenges and leverage emerging opportunities in tourism.
Buensuceso acknowledged the roles of the ASEAN-China Center, ASEAN-Japan Center, and ASEAN-Korea Center in propelling common tourism goals across the region. Looking forward, she urged for a tourism sector that is competitive, resilient, and inclusive.
She concluded with, “By strengthening our partnerships, we can champion cultural exchange and foster innovation in travel experiences, thereby enhancing the appeal of our destinations to travelers from every corner of the globe.”