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Appointment of an Australian agent for the prestigious COTTM

Australian representative appointed for Premier Outbound China Expo

The appointment of an Australian agent for the prestigious China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market (COTTM) is a major breakthrough for Australian and New Zealand tourism operators interested in tapping into the colossal Chinese market, which saw 45.8 million outbound travellers in 2008.

Queensland-based Exhibitions and Promotions will be the sole agent for Australia and New Zealand representing COTTM – the only business-to-business event for the outbound travel and tourism industry in China.

Exhibitions and Promotions has secured a large, prime site at the main entrance of the exhibition venue, set for 28 – 30 April 2010.

“The potential of the Chinese market is eye-popping,” said Mr Leigh Kealton, Managing Director of Exhibitions and Promotions, organisers of travel events for nearly 20 years. “We would really like to encourage the travel and tourism industry in Australia and New Zealand to lock this event into your marketing schedule.

“COTTM is in its 6th year and has a strong attendance record, which is growing each year. With our extensive background in developing new and emerging markets in the tourism industry we feel it is a perfect partnership.”

COTTM is staged in Beijing, conveniently located in the same city as the major Chinese outbound tour operators. Over 3000 Chinese travel industry buyers, decision-makers and influencers attended last year.

COTTM is organised by the London-based Tarsus Group which has a catalogue of trade events around the world.

“COTTM is designed to showcase travel and tourism destinations and products from around the globe to the heavy-weights in China’s outbound sector. It has not always been easy to make inroads into the Chinese marketplace, but we have broken through with COTTM and have gained the confidence and respect of key business people in China’s outbound travel industry. We are delighted that Australia and New Zealand will be able to take advantage of our success with the help of Leigh Kealton and Exhibitions and Promotions,” said Mr Matt Thompson, Project Director for COTTM.

“I have no doubt we will continue to build on our success for 2010 and we expect another record attendance from Chinese outbound travel agents and tour operators, giving Australia and New Zealand a perfect entree to this multi-billion dollar market.

“Having a representative close at hand will make the organisation of stands and displays so much easier for Australian and New Zealand participants,” said Mr Thompson.

Over 50 countries were represented at COTTM last year.

An exit survey at COTTM last year ranked Australasia/Pacific one of the most desirable destinations, just behind Asia, USA and Europe.

“Chinese outbound operators and agencies are keen to learn more about the products and destinations available in Australia and New Zealand. They want to meet tour operators; hear about our attractions; understand the destinations and the experiences we have to offer,” said Mr Kealton. “Translators can also be arranged through the organisers to facilitate the establishment of new alliances.”

Unlike many other travel expos in China, this is a strictly outbound trade only event, avoiding the distraction of the general public. Early bird rates are available for bookings before September 2009, with affordable shell-scheme or space-only options.

“There is no doubting China is the world’s fastest growing outbound market. The number of outbound visitor grew almost 12 per cent from 2007 to 2008, and is well on track for the forecast 100 million travellers by 2020 predicted by the World Tourism Organisation (WTO),” said Mr Thompson. “This market is truly exciting.”

Tatiana Rokou
News Editor - Travel Media Applications | Website | + Articles

Tatiana is the news co-ordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes to monitor the hundrends of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skim the most important according to our strategy. She holds a Bachelor degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.

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