Global Tourism Market Expansion: Taiwan Tops Regional Growth Rate

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals (the number of inbound overseas travelers) in the first half of 2014 reached 517 million, a 4.6% increase compared to the same period the previous year. Full-year 2014 growth is also projected to exceed UNWTO's initial forecast, reaching 4 to 4.5%.

The Americas region recorded the strongest growth (6% increase). In North America, travel to Mexico stood out with a 19.8% increase. In South America, the FIFA World Cup held in Brazil contributed to the rise in visitors. The country's tourism revenue also increased by 10% over the first seven months of the year.

Next was Asia-Pacific (5% increase). Taiwan recorded the highest growth rate among the 50 countries and regions surveyed, at 26.7%. Other regions also saw double-digit growth, including Japan (26.4%), South Korea (18.5%), Vietnam (15.6%), Malaysia (10.5%), and Hong Kong (10.5%), collectively driving overall growth.

Taiwan Sees Surge in Tourists

According to Taiwan's Tourism Bureau, the largest increase came from Chinese tourists, up 38.4% compared to the same period last year. Significant growth was also seen from Japan (18.5% increase) and Southeast Asia (16.8% increase).

Regarding the surge in visitors to Taiwan, a travel industry insider commented, "The significant increase in individual Chinese tourists is partly due to relaxed policies on independent travel. Additionally, the popularity of Taiwan travel in Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong seems to be growing, thanks to the expansion of travel plans focusing on Taiwan's culture and nature."