Chinese tourists are vital to Croatia’s tourism sector, with their numbers surging by 93% this year. Croatia aims to attract them year-round through targeted promotional efforts.
Chinese tourists are crucial to Croatia’s tourism industry, with visitor numbers experiencing a remarkable 93% growth this year compared to the same period last year. Croatia has recognized the significance of this market, and the Croatian National Tourist Board (CNTB) is actively working to ensure continued growth. Chinese tourists are not just seeking sunshine and beaches but are drawn to Croatia’s cultural, historical, and gastronomic offerings, making it a year-round destination for travelers from China.
Kristjan Stanicic, Director of the CNTB, recently highlighted that approximately 100,000 Chinese tourists have already visited Croatia this year, and the trend is expected to rise. He attributes this growth to the tailored promotional efforts designed specifically for the Chinese market, which includes a strong focus on the country’s rich heritage, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that resonate with Chinese visitors.
Tourism is a cornerstone of Croatia’s economy, contributing around 20% of the country’s GDP. The record high of 300,000 Chinese visitors in 2019 illustrates the potential of this market, and Stanicic is optimistic that these pre-pandemic numbers will be reached again in the coming years. Croatia’s partnership with China is further strengthened by the work of the CNTB’s Shanghai office, which has been promoting Croatia through various initiatives such as participation in fairs, media collaborations, and workshops. Additionally, the focus on building strong connections with airlines has been a key part of their strategy to make Croatia more accessible to Chinese tourists.
The growing relationship between China and Croatia offers mutual benefits, with Chinese tourists gaining access to Croatia’s diverse attractions while opening up new opportunities for Croatian travelers interested in China. This dynamic exchange highlights the broader potential for cross-cultural tourism growth.
By strategically focusing on year-round tourism offerings and continually strengthening ties with the Chinese market, Croatia is poised to see continued growth in its tourism sector, further solidifying its position as a top European destination for Chinese travelers.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
