(in cooperation with UNWTO Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific)

As one of the fastest-growing regions in the world, the tourism industry in the Asia-Pacific region has undergone tremendous changes in the past 20 years under the influence of globalization, digitalization and changing consumer preferences. The epidemic has changed consumers' views on travel. In addition, the recovery process of Asia's tourism industry lags far behind the world average, especially compared with regions such as Europe and the Middle East. Despite these disruptions and setbacks, new opportunities are emerging, such as moving the tourism industry on a more sustainable path, enhancing the digitalization of tourism, and promoting community engagement. This discussion session brought together a number of influential industry leaders to discuss how the Asia-Pacific region defines long-term sustainable development of the tourism industry. What are the key strategies for tourism destination management and marketing in Asia Pacific? How can regional leaders ensure the growth and profitability of tourism while achieving the Sustainable Development Goals? What innovative trends are changing mobility, marketing and communications in the Asia Pacific region? How will the Asia-Pacific region contribute to the transformation of the travel industry over the next decade?

Moderator

XU Jing (徐京)，Vice Chairman of Global Tourism Economy Research Centre (Mainland China)

Session Keynote Speaker

Hae Guk (Harry) HWANG，Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) (Spain)

Panelists (In alphabetical order by surname)

Maria Helena DE SENNA FERNANDES (文綺華)，Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, Vice Chairman of Global Tourism Economy Forum (Macao China)

Priantha FERNANDO，Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (Sri Lanka)

Christina Garcia FRASCO，Secretary of Department of Tourism of the Philippines (Philippines)

Hussain NIYAAZ， Ambassador, Secretary, Economic Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maldives (Maldives)