All Entries Tagged With: "China"

CIBTM CELEBRATES ANOTHER RECORD YEAR

Beijing Tourism Administration plans to make CIBTM the meetings industry event in the ASEAN Region

At CIBTM 2010, Ms Gu, Deputy Director General of the Beijing Tourism Administration (BTA) and the co-organiser of the event, announced that they expect CIBTM will become the leading event for the meetings industry in ASEAN within the next three years.

Increased numbers of exhibitors, representing 26 countries, the largest ever Hosted Buyer Programme and number of trade visitors, helped set the trend for growth and secure the future of CIBTM which took place in Beijing this week.

Shane Jameson, Director of Sales for Jebel Ali International Hotels Dubai, supported the BTA’s vision. “CIBTM takes place in the most prolifically fast moving market in the world.  We are here for the long term – 150% – we will not survive as a destination without business from China and CIBTM will help us deliver it.”

On closing, indications are that the total number of Hosted Buyers and trade visitors increased by 16% on 2009. The official figures are subject to an independent official audit.

Sean Mahoney, Global Vice President of Corporate & Incentive Sales for Silversea Cruises said: “We are big fans of the RTE portfolio of meetings events and attend them all. What appeals to us about CIBTM is that everyone here sees the potential in this market. We are building brand awareness, finding potential partners, and as China is the No 1 market in Asia for us, we have a serious strategy for our business here.”

“Incentive and corporate groups from China are very interested in London for pre-Olympics, not only to see the infrastructure and stadiums but to also experience some sporting activities for themselves.  The interest from Hosted Buyers at CIBTM has been very good.  It’s our first year, but we are here to stay”, commented Kyle de Klerk, Business Development Manager for Chelsea Football Club part of the Visit London stand.

The thirst for knowledge and education about the MICE industry continued this year with some 20 speakers, of which nearly half were international, to help satisfy the demand for information on the meetings and incentive industry. Attendees to the 17 sessions were up over 30%.

Hosted Buyer Lai Ying, Manager of Zhejiang China International Travel Service said: “It’s my first time here.  The dedicated three day business platform taught me a lot about running a MICE business.  The two seminars held in the morning impressed me and helped widen my knowledge.  I would like to return next year.”

Shawn Pisani MIH: Director Industry Relations EMEA, Helms Briscoe commented: “We are new to the China market and are attending to establish business networks with Chinese counterparts.  Today I had good talks with local companies such as Regalia Hotel Group and Gloria Hotels & Resorts to name but a few.”

The 4th China and Asia Meetings Industry Research Report, which was launched at the show, demonstrated that the meetings business in China and Asia is growing and that there has been a significant increase in the number of events held and a wider range of industry sectors are generating meetings and events.

Zhu Qian, Marketing Centre Director, Naning China International Travel Service Co. Ltd commented: “The educational seminars were excellent.  They provided a lot of insightful information and I learned a lot. It is very useful indeed and I recommend it to my peers.  Thank you CIBTM.”

Exhibition Manager Jeffrey Xu comments: “The meetings industry in China is now really beginning to take shape.  We are delighted with the response and feedback at this year’s show.  In 2009 we launched China Meetings Week and this has clearly increased the profile of the show dramatically, resulting in larger numbers of corporate Chinese buyers – key to the development of the show and its exhibitors.”

Dates for CIBTM 2011 are 30th August – 1st September at the China National Convention Centre, (CNCC) Beijing.

4th International Solar Cities World Congress

A very special event will take place in September 2010 in the Chinese City of Dezhou.

Dezhou already is China Solar City and will host the 4th International Solar Cities Initiative Congress from September16-19 2010. Before and after the congress touristic and technical tours will be organised and there will be free facilities for international working groups if they want to combine their meetings with participation in the Congress.

After some visits to Dezhou the International Solar Cities Initiative’s President expressed his feeling that Dezhou even deserves the title “World Solar City”.

CIBTM RESEARCH PREDICTS SIGNIFICANT GROWTH FOR CHINA MEETINGS INDUSTRY Sector benefiting from China becoming world’s second largest economy

The China Incentives, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition’s – CIBTM – Fourth China and Asia Meetings Industry Report 2010, presented today (Tuesday 31 August) has provided valuable insights into the developing meetings industry across China and Asia. At a time when China has taken the world’s second largest economy slot, the bespoke report predicts significant growth potential, with increased numbers of events using a wider range of destinations.

Key results from the research:

Buyers research

• 396 respondents, 67% based in China, 60% corporate, 7% associations/’not for profit’ and 33% third parties
• Increase in volume of events organised in China to mean of 5.6 events per buyer from 3.7 last year, events overall up to 4.8 per buyer from 4.0
• Numbers of attendees for events in China are up to 200 from 135 last year
• Mean duration for events in China up to 5.5 days, compared to 4.4 days last year
• Lead times have shortened to 5.2 months, compared to 6.8 months last year
• Growth in volume of events predicted to continue with 64.3% of buyers expecting to organise more events in China in next twelve months
• Mean annual budgets for organisers based in China is RMB 2,318,900 (up 34%); for international organisers is US$1,802,601 (down from US$2,425,000). Average 42.5% spent on events in China
• International air routes and the visa process have become more important issues for buyers while security and safety are now far less of a concern
• Satisfaction levels with most recently used destinations are high with a mean of 3.8 (out of 5), for the majority this relates to Beijing
• The economic climate and pressure to reduce costs remain a key concern for the next twelve months, despite the increase in budgets anticipated
• Buyers remain optimistic with 74% predicting an increase in the volume of events they organise and 51% predicting an increase in budgets for individual events
• 75% of buyers think World Expo will have an impact increasing business tourism in China.

Suppliers research

• 223 respondents, 78% based in China
• 87% of respondents said key clients were based in China
• For 64% over 50% of their business is taking place in China, with clients predominantly corporate (57%) and from a wide range of industry sectors, in particular pharmaceutical/medical
• Corporates remain the sector suppliers are trying to attract business from in future although there is more focus on ‘not for profit organisations’ this year
• Suppliers view capacity and quality of meeting facilities as important (more so than the buyers) and the overall appeal of destinations. Only 5% of supplier respondents were from airlines, which may explain their low ranking of international air routes as an important factor, a very different view to the buyers
• 75% of suppliers agreed with buyers that the volume of events will increase in future and 58% are increasing their promotional budgets
• 65% believe that China and Asia offer most growth opportunities for the future, with 51% focusing on the Yangtze River Delta.

Sally Greenhill, Managing Director of The Right Solution Limited, who compiled and independently analysed the report commented: “We have had a very positive response to the survey with 396 buyer respondents contributing this year, the largest number since the survey began four years ago.

“There is no doubt that this is a particularly exciting time for all those involved in the meetings industry in China.

“China, in light of their growing economy, is now becoming a compelling destination for meetings and incentives, offering a broad and wide range of experiences; not surprising bearing in mind the country has one of the oldest cultures. All indicators point to continued growth from both within China and outbound.”

Jeffrey Xu, CIBTM’s Exhibition Manger concluded: “Our bespoke research continues to play a vital role in gathering data which does not exist elsewhere, helping those within the meetings industry in China to develop and grow their businesses.”

The 4th CIBTM China and Asia Meetings Industry Research Report 2010 can be found at www.cibtm.com.

Central Government Officially Sponsors Asia’s Largest Meetings and Incentives Exhibition – CIBTM

China’s Tourism Administration and Beijing Municipal Government driving the development of Beijing into International Meeting, Incentives Conference and Exhibition hub

The China Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (CIBTM), Asia’s largest business travel and meetings industry trade show, announced today the official support and co-hosting by the China National Tourism Administration and the Beijing Municipal Government.

CIBTM 2010, to be held in Beijing for its fifth year, from 31st August to 2nd September at China National Convention Centre (CNCC), is one of five Reed Travel Exhibitions’ international shows dedicated exclusively to the meetings industry – EIBTM in Barcelona; GIBTM in Abu Dhabi; CIBTM in Beijing; AIBTM in Baltimore, USA and AIME in Melbourne, Australia.

“With China being the most dynamic and the fastest-growing economy in the world, as illustrated by many multinational companies with their regional headquarters in Beijing, the country’s capital city is clearly the ideal location to support the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector in Asia.” said Jeffrey Xu, Project Manager, CIBTM.

According to an analysis of China’s inbound tourism market, issued by China National Tourism Administration, business and meeting travelers account for 39.9 percent of all tourists. The MICE sector is certainly an important component for Chinese tourism market.

The award winning CIBTM, launched in 2005, is the largest and most established annual trade exhibition dedicated to the meetings sector in China and Asia. CIBTM attracts thousands of buyers and trade visitors from across China and internationally, eager to meet up with exhibitors from regional and intenational meetings and incentive suppliers.

CIBTM has established itself as the place for the meetings sector to gather in order to develop business, to network and for continuing professional development.

“There is immense interest in the sector, both inbound and outbound, as local corporations expand globally and the world’s leading organizations increasingly focus on this part of the world and its abundant growth prospects”, Mr. Xu added. “The support of CNTA and BTA is an immense honour for Reed Travel Exhibitions, and a clear sign that the Government recognizes the opportunities to leverage its hospitality, exhibitions and infrastructure facilities to support the meetings industry and high-end business tourism.”

CIBTM 2010 will deliver an expanded Hosted Buyer® Program <http://www.aibtm.com/page.cfm/link=13> for over 300 International, regional and local buyers. In addition, an extensive local marketing campaign will look to deliver almost 5000 regional and local trade visitors.

“We are confident that CIBTM 2010 will see continued growth of both exhibitors and buyers. The participating exhibitors this year will be more diversified and representative of the MICE industry. Far more tourist destinations, convention centers, hotels, professional MICE related tourist agencies, and event organizers will be present at CIBTM this year.” Jeffrey Xu said.

CIBTM 2010 will also play an integral role in China Meetings Week; a dedicated week supported by the local private sector, local and regional authorities and international industry associations such as ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association), Site (Society of Incentive & Travel Executives) and MPI (Meeting Professionals International). With education playing a pivotal role at CIBTM, the week will offer an extensive, tailored programme of seminars and panel discussions – key for providing market knowledge, insight and professional development at any level.

“It is an exciting time for the development of the meetings industry in China and we are delighted to be working in partnership with CIBTM and Reed Travel Exhibitions to build Beijing’s brand image in the MICE industry. Our partnership with CIBTM is certainly one that will grow and develop over the long term”, said Ms. Gu Xiaoyuan, Deputy Director-General of Beijing Tourism Administration.

“CIBTM is the ideal platform for education, business development, and networking opportunities for domestic and international MICE buyers and supplies, for which it has won widespread recognition. The Beijing Tourism Administration will step up its support for CIBTM and strive to build Beijing into the number-one MICE event in China and the Asia Pacific region in five years.”

“We are delighted that China National Tourism Administration and Beijing Municipal Government are co-hosting CIBTM 2010; an event that has become China’s national-level meetings exhibition. At a time when the industry is set for continued growth and expansion in China, CIBTM will continue to play a leading role in the development of the meetings industry throughout China.” said Craig Moyes, Reed Travel Exhibitions’ Group Exhibition Director, Meetings and Events Portfolio.

For more information about CIBTM or to register in advance as a visitor please visit www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com> . Alternatively email any queries to Reed Travel Exhibition’s Customer Service Center at wecibtm@reedexpo.com.cn.

China to build ginormous buses that cars can drive under

Seriously, this is the future that China’s envisioning: huge friggin’ buses engulfing smaller cars on the road. Despite the silly picture and the eccentric “3D Express Coach” branding, this cunning project byShenzhen Huashi Future Parking Equipment actually makes sense. The idea is to make use of the space between regular-size cars and bridges, thus saving construction costs as well as minimizing congestion impact by allowing cars to drive underneath these jumbo buses. Fancy hitching a ride? You better start planning your move to Beijing’s Mentougou district, which is where Huashi will commence building its first 186km of track at year’s end.

EDUCATION KEY TO DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OF MEETINGS INDUSTRY IN CHINA

Unrivalled CIBTM education programme for associations, corporates and agencies

CIBTM (www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com> ) – China’s leading exhibition for the Meetings, Incentives and Events Industry – is putting education at the core of the event in response to feedback from exhibitors, Hosted Buyers and trade visitors, thirsty for knowledge of the sector and international business practices.

Jeffrey Xu, CIBTM’s exhibition manager says: “China has never seen such a comprehensive and varied meetings industry education programme.  Anyone within the industry who has a desire to increase their knowledge and to build and develop their businesses should be at CIBTM. Attending the sessions alone will justify return on investment and time out of the office

“CIBTM, supported by China National Tourism Administration and Beijing Municipal Government, is one of the major driving forces behind the growth of the meetings industry throughout China. It is set to help China fully realise its potential to attract large-scale international corporate and association events.

With a raft of international and regional speakers, the programme, with the support of industry associations such as MPI, Site, ICCA and MCI, has been divided into three distinct days. Tuesday 31 August will focus on association buyers and general industry trends, including the unique findings of the CIBTM industry research and Day Two on corporate buyers focusing on Return on Investment and procurement.

The programme provides delegates with the latest in industry trends and developments, planning sustainable events and implementing best practices.

Sessions taking place at CIBTM over the three days include (as of 12th July 2010):

· Making the most of your association meeting

· Maximising revenue sources and leveraging content

· Social media and associations

· Membership certifications

· Criteria for running successful meetings

· CIBTM industry trends report

· Trends in the global world of incentives

· Implementing sustainability for your meetings

· Quality control at meetings and venues and hotels

· Corporate meeting planning

· The value of meetings

· MICE China

–    How to get the perfect venue using effective RFP processes

–    How to do destination marketing for meeting groups

· Corporate community engagement through travel

The programme features guest speakers from Site, ICCA, AIPC, MPI, MCI, WildChina, MICE China, University of Westminster, Gary Grimmer Associates and The Right Solution.

Erica Keogan, Associations and Education Manager, RTE Meetings and Incentives Events adds: “Our reputation for creating bespoke education sessions for all our international events is unrivalled.  This year’s extensive CIBTM programme will provide those within the meetings industry in China with the knowledge and tools to further their corporate and personal development.  It really is an event not to be missed.”

For further information on the free education programme and for details of how to register visit www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com>

CIBTM HOSTED BUYER AND VISITOR REGISTRATION OPEN

Register for exclusive business, education and networking opportunities at www.cibtm.com

Hosted Buyer and visitor registration has opened for The China Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (CIBTM – www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com> ) – the leading and largest international event for the business travel and meetings, incentives, conferences and events industry in China and the wider Asia region.

CIBTM, taking place from August 31st – 2nd September 2010 at Beijing’s China National Convention Centre, is the only meetings industry show officially backed by the Beijing Tourism Administration and co hosted by the China National Tourism Administration and the Beijing Municipal Government.

Exhibition Manager Jeffrey Xu comments:  “CIBTM provides a dedicated three-day business platform focused on the rapidly expanding and developing Chinese outbound market. It provides the best showcase of the Meetings Industry in the region and is a must attend event for all industry professionals.

“I would encourage anyone involved in the planning and staging of meetings, incentives, events and business travel throughout the region to register and secure their Hosted Buyer or visitor place.”

Award winning Hosted Buyer Programme

The award winning CIBTM Hosted Buyer Programme, offering a unique VIP business opportunity, is open to top industry buyers from associations, corporations and agencies organising international events. Benefits of the Hosted Buyer Programme include complimentary flights from selected airports; complimentary 4/5 star accommodation at an official CIBTM hotel in Beijing; one-to-one diary of priority appointments with exhibitors, arranged prior to the event; invitations to evening receptions and exclusive networking functions; entrance to the private Hosted Buyer Lounge during the exhibition and complimentary access to the China Meetings Week and CIBTM’s Professional Education Programme.

Free visitor registration

Free visitor registration is open to all who prefer to organise their own schedules during the event. Benefits of pre-registering include pre-show news updates, free entrance and fast-track entry.

The visitor programme will enable those attending to meet with local and global suppliers, enhance their knowledge of the meetings industry and to assist in their personal professional development.

Simultaneous translations will be provided in all sessions.

CIBTM Exhibition Manager Jeffrey Xu adds: “The Hosted Buyer Programme reflects the nature of buyers our exhibitors want to do business with. Delivering quality buyers who place business inbound and intra-regionally across Asia but also outbound from China ensures we satisfy the needs of both international and local exhibitors.

“This is a particularly exciting time for the meetings industry in China. Recognised by both the Chinese National Government and Beijing authorities who are supporting the event, the industry is set for a period of growth and expansion.  If ever there was a time to do business in China it is now…..and at CIBTM.”

For full event details and to apply for free Hosted Buyer or visitor status log onto www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com>

Alternatively, contact a member of the CIBTM Hosted Buyer team at cibtm-hosted@reedexpo.co.uk or the dedicated China team at cibtm@reedexpo.com.cn <mailto:CIBTM@reedexpo.com.cn> .

CALLING ALL MEETING PROFESSIONALS – BE PART OF CIBTM’S PAN ASIAN RESEARCH SURVEY NOW LIVE ON WWW.CIBTM.COM

Third CIBTM Pan Asian Meetings Industry Research Report to provide most up-to-date market information on state of meetings and incentives industry

The China Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (CIBTM), taking place in Beijing from 31 August – 2 September, is calling all meetings professionals to take part in their third global research study

The results from the research will provide the most up-to-date market data on Chinese inbound and outbound demand and supply trends.

The survey is available online at www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com> with a separate survey for buyers and suppliers.

The results of the research will be revealed by Sally Greenhill, Managing Director, The Right Solution, at a special presentation at CIBTM on Tuesday 31 August at 14.00.  All those who participate in the survey will be invited to attend the presentation.

Exhibition Manager Jeffery Xu comments: “This is one of the most important annual surveys for the meetings industry in China and Asia. It gives a clear overview of current trends and factors to affect the growth of the meetings industry in the future. It provides invaluable information for all those in the meetings industry whether in China or further afield. It will help meetings professionals to develop their business strategies for the future. I encourage all meetings professionals, who plan or currently do business within the region,  to take just a few minutes to go online and complete the survey.”

Berlin-Based Companies Establish Contacts in China

SHANGHAI and SHENZHEN, June 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Businessmen and politicians from Berlin who traveled to China for a series of events coinciding with the EXPO 2010 have hailed their trip a resounding success. Many business contacts were established during investment and business conferences held in Shanghai and Shenzhen as part of ‘Berlin Days in China’. The German delegation included representatives from 25 Berlin-based companies in the energy, traffic and transport, water, and creative industries.

The trip ended on Thursday with an economic conference in Shenzhen organized by the Berlin Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the German Chamber of Foreign Trade in China. Some 250 delegates from companies in the Pearl River delta participated in the event, which was entitled ‘Business Know-How for Sustainable Urban Environments – Experiences from Berlin and Shenzhen’. The companies from Berlin held approximately 500 direct talks with potential Chinese business partners. Berlin Mayor and Economics Senator Harald Wolf also met Chinese businessmen interested in investing in Berlin, representatives of the National Development and Reform Commission of the People’s Republic of China, and the municipal authorities of Shijiazhuang and Shenzhen. Senator Wolf: “We are keen to establish viable long-term contacts between the Berlin economy and China at every level. This trip to China has brought this objective a step closer.”

The Berlin Days in China were launched at the EXPO 2010 in Shanghai and included an evening reception with Senator Wolf and a concert combining traditional Chinese music and Berlin hip-hop under the title ‘Young Euro Classic Meets Hip Hop Stützpunkt’. The finale of the Berlin Days in China was the opening of the exhibition ‘Close Your Eyes and See’ staged by the Berlin Senate Urban Planning Department and Berlin Technical University on the EXPO site in Shanghai.

Further information: http://www.be.berlin.de/berlindays

ICCA announces destinations for 2013 ICCA Congress and 2012 ICCA Research, Sales & Marketing Programme

The 52nd ICCA Congress will be held in Shanghai, China-P.R. on 2 – 6 November 2013

The ICCA Board’s decision was made at the IMEX 2010 exhibition in Frankfurt and was revealed on the last day of the show. The other finalists in the bidding competition were Houston, TX, U.S.A. and Gold Coast, Qld., Australia.

ICCA CEO Martin Sirk said: “The standard of bids received from our member destinations continues to improve each year, and Shanghai needed to produce an exceptional proposal in order to win this tough competition.  Their bid involved members from all over China, it positioned the ICCA Congress as a key milestone in the strategic development of China’s international meetings industry, it was packed with creative concepts, and clearly communicated the enthusiasm and commitment of the host team.  We anticipate that this will be a superb event, and look forward to working with our Chinese colleagues on a programme that will expose ICCA members to China and its business potential, and which will transfer cutting-edge knowledge and expertise to the Chinese meetings industry.”

ICCA Research, Sales & Marketing Programme 2012 goes to Vorarlberg, Austria

The programme will be held from 14-16 June 2012 at the Festival House Bregenz.

Marina Knittel, Project Manager, Convention Partner Vorarlberg says: “We are proud and excited to host the ICCA Research, Sales & Marketing Programme 2012. Vorarlberg will definitely impress the delegates by its fascinating scenery between Lake Constance and the Alps, our highly-awarded congress facilities (The Festival House Bregenz was awarded by EVVC as one of the 3 „Best Centers” in 2009), and the hospitality and friendliness of the local people. Sustainable event organising is a matter of course in our region and we look forward to applying our principle of economic, ecological and social responsibility to the organisation of the programme. We are confident that the delegates will enjoy both the educational and recreational part of their stay in Vorarlberg.”

CHINA MEETINGS WEEK AT CIBTM SETS AGENDA FOR MEETINGS GROWTH

For the first time in China – CIBTM (www.cibtm.com <http://www.cibtm.com> ), the country’s leading exhibition for the Meetings, Incentives and Events Industry – will be running a dedicated China Meetings Week. CIBTM is the only industry show officially backed by the national government in China – China National Tourism Administration and Beijing Municipal Government.

The initiative has also received the backing of leading industry associations – MPI, ICCA, Site – all providing input into the professional education programme that plays such a pivotal role in the event.

China Meetings Week, with CIBTM at its core, running from 30th August to 3rd September, is one of the major driving forces behind the growth of the meetings industry throughout China. It is set to help China fully realise its potential to attract large-scale international corporate and association events.

Last year’s record breaking event proved that exhibitors, Hosted Buyers and trade visitors were thirsty for knowledge of the sector and international business practices.

CIBTM’s Event Director, Jeffrey Xu said: “CIBTM and China Meetings Week provide a dedicated five day business platform focussed on the rapidly expanding and developing Chinese outbound market. Our renowned, award winning international Hosted Buyer Programme, extensive education sessions and unrivalled networking opportunities will provide the best showcase of the meetings industry in the region.”

China Meetings Week comprises:

·      Site Conference – on Monday, 30th August 2010, a full day conference will take place, tackling many of the key issues of the day affecting the meetings and events professionals

·      CIBTM Professional Education Programme – featuring guest speakers from MPI, ICCA, AIPC, Wild China and MICE China.  Day One on Tuesday 31 August will focus on association buyers and general industry trends, including the unique findings of the CIBTM industry research; Day Two on corporate buyers focusing on Return on Investment and procurement and Day Three on agencies. The comprehensive programme will provide delegates with the latest in industry trends and developments, best practices for planning meetings and a daily technology session

·      CEO Lunch – bringing together CEO’s from governmental organisations and industry associations. This will be the first industry CEO gathering for the meetings industry in China

In addition, an ICCA Forum for Young Professionals is planned for the Meetings Week – an initiative aiming to bring together 20 young industry professionals from China for debates, discussions, lectures and group challenges.

Jeffrey Xu concludes: “Last year CIBTM welcomed a record attendance of 4,978 which included more than 260 exhibitors from 28 countries, 3,238 trade visitors and 231 Hosted Buyers from 25 countries.  We are confident this year we will see continued growth in the event as the Chinese government, private sector, local and regional authorities and international industry Associations recognise the massive opportunities open to China’s expanding meetings sector.

“CIBTM will be the key generator in providing professional education as well as networking events to create a week of activities to enable the meetings industry in China to continue to grow and flourish.”

CIBTM’S CONTRIBUTION TO MICE INDUSTRY RECOGNISED BY LEADING CHINESE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

CIBTM – the China Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition – has had its contribution to the Chinese MICE industry officially recognised by the prestigious COTRI – China Outbound Tourism Research Institute.

Co hosted and supported by the China National Tourism Administration and the Beijing Municipal Government, CIBTM is the only BT MICE show officially backed by the national government in China.

CIBTM received a bronze award in the ‘Overall Performance’ category at the 2010 Annual Chinese Tourists Welcoming Awards.

The Awards, now in their seventh year, reward those who contribute to the Chinese MICE industry by providing an effective platform for industry professionals to do business and network. The CTW Awards have been recognised both in and outside China as the most important awards for the Chinese outbound tourism market, providing a reliable index for Chinese tour operators and travellers.

Jeffrey Xu, CIBTM’s Exhibition Manager, who received the Award from COTRI Director Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Georg Arlt commented: “We are delighted to receive this award, which recognises all the work CIBTM has, and is doing to drive the development of the Meetings Industry in China. We are committed to ensuring CIBTM reflects the needs of international, regional and local Chinese Meetings planners and suppliers. CIBTM 2010 will be no exception as all our efforts are focused on continuing to develop the event based on the needs of our exhibitors, Hosted Buyers and trade visitors.”

The China Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition will take place from 31st August – 2nd September 2010 at the China National Convention Center (CNCC) in Beijing.

To register to attend CIBTM 2010 please go to www.cibtm.com

CIBTM ATTRACTS MAJOR PLAYERS

China event builds on record year International exhibitors commit

Following last year’s record figures, an impressive list of international exhibitors – both first timers and those taking additional space – have signed up to attend the China Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (CIBTM –www.cibtm.com), taking place from 31st August – 2 September 2010 at the China National Convention Center (CNCC) in Beijing.

Co hosted and supported by the China National Tourism Administration and the Beijing Municipal Government, CIBTM is the only BT MICE show officially backed by the national government in China.

One of the exhibitors to confirm their first-time attendance at CIBTM 2010 is Silversea Cruises. Other exhibitors include GHM Hotels, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Korea Tourism Organisation, M Events, Macau Government Tourist Office, Marriott International Inc., Meet Taiwan, Philippine Tourism Office, SACEOS, Sicilia Convention Bureau, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Toerisme Vlaanderen, Tourism Ireland and the Vienna Convention Bureau.

Middle East destinations such as Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and Government of Dubai have also recognised the importance of CIBTM in highlighting one of the fastest developing regions for meetings and incentives.

John Toomey, Regional Director, Global Sales Greater China Marriott International believes that attending CIBTM again provides a “terrific opportunity to meet and build relationships with buyers not only from China, but also from overseas. This MICE focused show is of “A” grade quality and always hits the main objectives of the hotels that participate from our group.”

Julia Pas, General Manager M Events, says: “With the opening of our regional office in China, CIBTM is a great first step to meet key players in the regional MICE industry and to inform them on how our solutions can specifically cater to their business in Asia. We expect a range of new contacts and opportunities that we can further pursue in order to build long lasting business relationships. Many international clients already know us but it will be very positive for them to see us being represented with a stand at the CIBTM.”

Exhibition Manager Jeffrey Xu comments: “CIBTM’s aim has always been to play a leading role in the growth and development of the Meetings Industry throughout China.

“With these exhibitors and the launch of the China Meetings Week – a week of events surrounding CIBTM 2010 – we can help China fully realise its potential to attract large-scale international corporate and association events.”

EXPO 2010 in China revives business world: New clients and projects for VOK DAMS.Shanghai

Ulrike Ellmann, managing director of the event- and live-marketing agency VOK DAMS.China, has announced that the agency has been experiencing a successful start into the new year. The agency has already contracted to collaborate on a multitude of projects with renowned clients. For example, the agency will organize a product launch and showroom opening for Aston Martin, the annual meeting of Bayer CropScience, attended by 300 people, a regional management meeting of Bayer APAC, and a product launch with over 100 attendees for Lamborghini.

Gran Meliá Shanghai: The futurist Feng-Shui hotel

The Gran Meliá Shanghai is the first Gran Meliá property in China; rising majestically above the Pudong District and overlooking the Huangpu River, the Gran Meliá Shanghai is a breathtaking testament to architectural ingenuity; crowned by the majestic Sykline Lounge with its cinematic views of the city. With a dazzling array of world-class dining options, a full-treatment YHI Spa and the brand-signature Red Glove Service, the five-star Gran Meliá Shanghai represents a new tier of Luxury Hotel accommodation.

Total harmony

The Gran Meliá Shanghai has become the embodiment of Feng-Shui. The Hotel’s architecture and interior has been designed specifically to energise and invigorate guests. The hotel draws positive energy form the Huangpu River, which influenced the choice of materials and design; steel and glass for the walls, curved shapes and the total absence of sharp edges and corners that impede the flow of energy. At Sol Meliá, “we want our guests to feel they are at one with their environment, and help our clients enjoy the good life, in total harmony with the elements and energies”.

Unconditional comfort

All 686 guestrooms include panoramic views of the city and strike the perfect balance between spacious living and relaxation that elevates comfort beyond a sensation to a standard of living. All room are fully equipped with iPod connections, marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and separate bathtubs and flat-screen TVs with satellite programming.

Taste, Touch, Sound, Smell

Immerse yourself in a truly sensual experience; swim the high-altitude rooftop pool; embrace the playful rhythms of Cuban Salsa music in La Floridita; dine at one of the lavish restaurants, serving the finest cuisine from the Mediterranean and China; relax in the YHI spa and purify your senses in this tranquil haven of wellness.

Take time out to peruse the on-site shopping arcade and beauty salon or explore the vibrant cityscape that is Shanghai at night from the luxury of the Skyline Lounge with its striking décor, luxurious fabrics and scintillating colours.

The Gran Meliá Shanghai is defined by the juxtaposition of soft, organic materials within a sleek, contemporarily designed space.

Restaurants

La Albufera – Spanish Gourmet Cuisine

Tian Chao Restaurant – Chinese Cuisine

Oasis – Italian Cuisine

International Café

Bars

La Floridita – Cuban Music Bar

Cigar Bar

Panoramic Bar

Lobby Bar

Facilities

2 swimming pools (a full-sized indoor pool and a high-altitude rooftop pool), shopping arcade with beauty salon, valet parking, chauffeur-driven limousine service, concierge, 520m² SPA facility and a fitness center incorporating a state of the art gym, sauna & Turkish bath and treatment rooms

For the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sol Meliá, Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, the opening of the Gran Meliá Shanghai Hotel represents “an extraordinary opportunity to position the company in the most dynamic market in the world, bringing our Latin character and passion for service to places which we never could have imagined”. The company plans to present the hotel to the Spanish market at the next edition of FITUR, the most important tourism trade fair in Europe.

Bridging the global MICE business at IT&CM China 2010

Top international and Chinese buyers and sellers to converge at fourth instalment this April

ESC to give talks on Diabetes in three cities in China

As a result of successful events organised last year, a second Joint Scientific Forum, organised by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD), two of the most respected professional medical organisations in Europe, will be held from 27-29 November at three venues across China – Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

The theme is the Optimal Management of Diabetes, with talks given to an audience of clinicians who treat diabetes and cardiology patients. Subjects to be covered include long-term efficacy for current treatment, early intervention and combination treatment for maximum benefit, Hyperglycaemia and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), and Diabetic cardiopathy.

In recent years, the link between diabetes and heart disease has been the focus of international attention. Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest growing public health problems in both developed and developing countries (1) and coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death among patients with type 2 diabetes (2). Results from large-scale studies have raised questions on the safety of new diabetic drugs in connection with heart disease. At this forum, leading cardiologists and diabetologists will explore the concerns to be considered in the multidisciplinary management of diabetic patients and identify optimal treatment strategies for the Asian and European patient.

A speaker at the event, Dr Ernst Rietzschel (Ghent University, Belgium) said the purpose of the meeting is “sharing knowledge and viewpoints”. Dr Rietzschel who is a cardiologist interested in Prevention, will be speaking about the optimal treatment of diabetes from the point of view of the cardiologist and about diabetic myopathy.
He said: “We have in the West a long track record in preventive research. China (at least in the cities) is now overtaking us with its “western lifestyle” and will be faced with similar huge problems caused by changes in lifestyle and downstream diabetes. The main question for them is how to implement the parts of our European experience which they find useful/interesting and how to do so quickly and efficiently in such a vast (and disparate) country.”

He went on to explain that: “Changing lifestyle is crucial but notoriously difficult.
China is a huge country which is developing very rapidly and now facing the same problems we’ve had for a long time, but on a massive scale. Their problems are very similar to ours. There is a trend in the data showing that Asians are slightly more susceptible to developing diabetes and so this should be tackled more aggressively.”

This event will not only heighten awareness of the relationship between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, but also the differences in treatment of Asian versus European patients. At least 100 participants are expected in each venue, with each meeting also beamed by satellite, for others to follow.

Professor Thierry Gillebert (Ghent University, Belgium) is responsible for the educational meetings in Asia within the ESC Education Committee. He explained why the Asia programmes are so important:

“China is a country with several different races so the challenges are different. We are trying to establish the best medication and how to realise the best health benefits. The goal is to develop a network with them to increase cooperation.

The ESC cares for the cardiovascular health in member states but feels responsible for the global health of the world.”
All slides and texts used during the meetings will be translated into Chinese.

COTRI and AMSTAR DMC have signed partnership agreement during CITM in Kunming.

Quality assessment, research and marketing services for the Chinese tourism market.

November 24, 2009. Two leading organizations for the Chinese tourism markets have agreed to join forces during the China International Travel Mart (CITM), held in Kunming from November 19-22, 2009.

For sustainable growth and optimized service quality, which incorporates knowledge about different cultural backgrounds of Chinese and non-Chinese customer groups, the tourism industry needs research, marketing planning, training and quality assessment. COTRI and AMSTAR DMC have decided to work closely together to support the tourism industry both inside and outside of China.

The COTRI China Outbound Tourism Research Institute, based in Germany and led by its Director Prof. Wolfgang Georg Arlt is the worldwide leading independent research institute for analysis, consulting and quality assessment relating to the Chinese Outbound Tourism market. AMSTAR DMC, an international tourism and hospitality services provider company based in Mexico under the leadership of its CEO Mr. Eugene Rybicki provides marketing and supply of tourism services, and specially the promotion of various tourism packages and services as well as its own services to visit the country of Mexico by the Chinese and international markets. AMSTAR DMC is the leading destination marketing and tourism services provider company in Mexico with a focus on the Chinese outbound tourism market.

“Mexico is certain to develop into a major tourism destination especially for the more affluent part of the Chinese society. In adding the competence of COTRI for the Chinese outbound market and the strong position and vast experience of AMSTAR in Mexico, the development of high-quality products and services customized for Chinese visitors will help the Mexican as well as the Chinese tourism industry” said Prof. Arlt. “CITM in Kunming as the major tourism event for tourism trade organized by Chinese government officials provides the ideal venue for the start of our cooperation and announced AMSTAR DMC as the official representative of COTRI in Mexico”, added Mr. Rybicki.

Dusit International arrives in China

Dusit Thani Sanya will be the flagship resort in the world’s largest tourism market

Dusit International, one of Asia’s leading international hotel chains, reaches another major milestone with the announcement of its first Dusit property in China – Dusit Thani Sanya. The resort is located at Ziangshui Bay, an new exclusive enclave on the island. Opening in December 2010, Dusit Thani Sanya is located on the east Hainan Island (often referred to as the “Hawaii of the East”) and boasts spectacular views of the ocean and the coastline.

The resort has been designed to take advantage of every angle of the views, with 160 luxurious guestrooms, 22 beautifully designed villas, and one Presidential Suite, all overlooking the South China Sea. In addition, the resort will boast excellent meeting facilities, a gym and the award-winning Devarana Spa. It’s location out of the built up areas of Hainan Island will make it a truly inspiring resort destination.

According to the Feng Shui specialist, the location of the hotel is considered to be one of the top three sites of Hainan. Lying in the meeting point of two bays, the property is designed by Thailand’s well-known interior design company, P49 Design & Associates, collaborating closely with the global architectural firm, WHI. With their inspirations combined, ensuring to elicit the spirit of Thailand with the beauty of the location.

In terms of dining, Dusit Thani Sanya possess three restaurants; the Sala Mai Thai Restaurant – a contemporary fine dining experience, the Ocean Grill – a seafood restaurant overlooking the South China Sea, and the Asian-inspired restaurant showcasing a combination of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisine.

Mr. Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International, said “I am delighted to introduce our first Dusit in China. Thailand and China have a long shared heritage with an established history together for over a thousand years, which makes the blending of our two cultures a perfect synergy in today’s world of generic hotel cultures. Dusit’s core values of being uniquely Thai and delivering to our guest exceptional products and services are unmatched by any other hotel brand in the world. With our gracious traditions and wealth of experience gained throughout the years, we are confident in bringing our very best to make Dusit Thani Sanya the most successful resort on Hainan island.”

Mr. Donavanik added, “The development and opening of Dusit Thani Sanya will serve as a major milestone for our group in entering China, which we see as a key strategic focus for our expansion, we applaud the owners for their vision in selecting this remarkable site. It marks the beginning of creating a network of properties in one of the most dynamic and vital economies in the world.”

Mr. Fu-Min Qu, owner of Dusit Thani Sanya acknowledged with, “We are glad to have chosen Dusit International as the management company to develop Dusit Thani Sanya, and to be their first partner in this region”. He also added, “Thai culture in hospitality is truly unique and fascinating, which will be the key element to set us apart from other hotels and resorts in China.”

The Official Emblem, Mascot & Slogan For 2010 Asia Para Games Announced

GUANGZHOU, China – November 2009 – The 2010 Asia Para Games (www.gzapg2010.cn/en/), part of the worldwide Paralympic Movement and governed by the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC), is pleased to announce emblem, mascot and slogan for the Games that will be held December 12 – 19, 2010, here in the Southern Chinese city of Guangzhou.

Official Emblem

The official emblem of the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games is inspired by the Xiguan Flower Window, a design element that can be found in traditional houses in Guangzhou. The Xiguan Flower Window, which originated in northeastern China, was introduced to the city during the 17th Century, when window paper was replaced with the painted glass used in the West, to better deal with the challenging Lingnan climate.

The window was widely used in Xiguan residences and eventually became an important part of the Lingnan style of architecture. The Xiguan Flower Window thus represents integration and the diverse and welcoming nature of the Lingnan people.

The emblem is also a silhouette of an athlete in motion and uses the three colors, Red, Green and Blue, of the International Paralympics Committee (IPC) logo in its design.

The official emblem therefore represents disabled athletes’ striving for success at the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games. It represents the family of athletes with a disability and people with a disability as a whole coming together and enjoying Guangzhou’s hospitality as one during the Games and it represents a connection between two sides – better communication and a breaking down of the barriers between all peoples.

Official Mascot

Fun Fun, the official mascot of the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games, is a lively Kapok, Guangzhou’s native flower. In Lingnan culture, the Kapok represents strength and so Fun Fun is a wonderful ambassador for the Para Games and represents the fighting spirit of the disabled and the never ending quest for success.

In Chinese, Fun Fun is used to describe a flower’s fragrance—sweet and pleasant with a lovely aroma. Fun Fun’s five dancing petals create a bright smiling face, symbolizing the joy felt by everyone taking part in the Games and the enthusiasm and support shown by Guangzhou, the Host City. Fun Fun’s active, sporty pose symbolizes the vitality of the Para Games and the power that comes with motion.

Fun also has a wonderful meaning in the English language – our new friend is telling us that the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games will be an unforgettable event that will be fun for everyone – a key goal of these Games.

Official Slogan

The Official Slogan of the Asia Para Games is: We Cheer, We Share, We Win

Concept: These three phrases together capture the themes and goals of the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games.

An excited crowd cheers from the grandstands…

The image of supporters and sports fans alike, cheering on the sports spectacle before them, beautifully captures the atmosphere the organizers wish to create at the upcoming Asian Para Games. As a sports festival, the Games will celebrate the beauty of sport and the joy of participation. As a sports competition, it will provide a great opportunity for athletes to rise above their disabilities, compete at the highest level and inspire all of us to be all we can be.

Through sport, people with a disability have faced and overcome the challenges that life has presented to them. Their efforts have redefined their lives and the boundaries of what is possible and provided them with an opportunity to build their confidence, their independence and their self-esteem. Cheer therefore not only represents the actions of a supportive crowd, but also the feeling the athletes will experience and the support they will give each other, during the event.

A shared experience, a shared humanity…

The theme of sharing is at the heart of the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games. The Asian Para Games provides an opportunity to raise the profile of the disabled and promote equality for all. Their achievements in sport remind us that the disabled have the same dreams and the same rights; to enjoy physical activities and the best life has to offer, as the able-bodied. During the Games, they will share the challenges and the joys of competition and share in each other’s successes and sorrows.

Winning Beyond Sport…

At the Asian Para Games, winning not only happens on the sports field. The very existence of the Games creates a win-win situation for everyone .The Games uphold the spirit of the Olympics and inspire the humanitarian in all of us, raise sport and the image of the disabled to a higher level and, at the same time, create a sense of purpose and achievement for every athlete, supporter, official and individual taking part. This win-win scenario is at the heart of the Para Games, as are the Olympic ideals of promoting solidarity among nations and regions and achieving peace and harmony, through sport.

We Cheer, We Share, We Win

The Asian Para Games are for the people of Asia, both the physically challenged and the able-bodied. With athletes and delegations from 45 countries and regions in Asia participating and thousands of sports fans expected to attend, the Asian Para Games are for everyone. They are important, they are inclusive and they are welcoming. The ‘We’ in the Games Slogan is all of us.

About The 2010 Asia Para Games

The 2010 Asia Para Games (www.gzapg2010.cn/en/) is approved and governed by the Asian Paralympic Committee and will be held in “Flower City” of Guangzhou from December 12-19, 2010.More than 4,000 athletes, coaches and trainers from 40 countries and regions will compete in 19 sports.

Anantara Brand Expands into China with First Resort

Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, a leading hospitality and leisure organisation in the Asia-Pacific region, announced its expansion into the Chinese market with Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa, due to open at the end of 2010.

Building upon the presence of its existing Anantara Spas in China, Anantara Sanya will further complement the brands growing network of luxury hotels and spas throughout Asia and beyond.

Occupying a tranquil section of beach on the serene Luhuitou Peninsula, Xiaodonghai, on the southernmost tip of Hainan Island in south China, Anantara Sanya will comprise 128 guestrooms and 20 pool villas within a luxury boutique property designed by GLC Enterprises LLC and owned by Sanya Luhuitou Tourism Development Co., Ltd. The topographic attractions of this destination abound as the Luhuitou peninsula is flanked by two beaches, Xiaodonghai Bay and Luhuitou Bay, and boasts a coastline stretch of over 1000 metres. The renowned Sanya tourism attraction, Luhuitou Park, is located on the hill overlooking the peninsula and provides a setting for 1000 year old romantic fables as well as panoramic views of the vast sea, the rolling mountains and Sanya city, which is only 3 km away.

In 2008 Sanya ranked sixth in China’s tourism revenue growth with an annualised rate of 14%, highlighting significant domestic and global reach for the destination. More broadly, the Anantara group is also planning several more Anantara resorts anticipated to open in China over the next few years.

William E. Heinecke, CEO of Minor International, owners of the Anantara brand, comments, “It is an honour to be launching our first resort in China, as it is evidence of our growing international presence in upmarket destinations both in China and beyond. It is our strong intention to provide guests with a unique collection of resort experiences in the world’s most sought after destinations, unified by Anantara’s philosophy for passionate, authentic exploration. We look forward to realising this aspirational promise at Anantara Sanya and for all forthcoming openings, with the imminent signing ceremony in Shanghai being testament to our global expansion of luxury resorts.”

This latest move illustrates Anantara’s sound progress in developing at least five new properties in the next two years and up to 40 resorts in Asia, Africa and the Middle East over the next 10 years.

Anantara recently received a number of top awards in key publications, with both Anantara Phuket and Anantara Desert Islands being named amongst the world’s hottest hotels in the annual Condé Nast Traveller “2009 Hot List”, the definitive guide to the hottest new hotels in the world. In addition, the July edition of Travel + Leisure USA named Anantara Dhigu, Maldives the “World’s Best” resort in the Maldives and Anantara Golden Triangle ranked in the Top 10 hotels in Asia.