The 33rd Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF), one of China's longest-running and most market-driven tourism exhibitions, is set to take place from May 15 to 17, 2025, at the Canton Fair Complex in Guangzhou. Themed "Meaningful Tourism, Enduring Connections," this year's edition promises to deepen international tourism collaboration and explore innovative models for sustainable travel development.

A global stage for sustainable tourism

At the press conference on May 8, organizers officially announced that with over 1,000 tourism destinations and organizations from 55 countries and regions expected to participate, the fair is poised to serve as a major hub for cultural exchange and business matchmaking in the global tourism industry.

This year, Sri Lanka serves as the "Star Partner". Mr. Suranga Algewatte, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Guangzhou, emphasized the role of fairs in promoting international cooperation. He announced that Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Esala Perahera festival, will be Sri Lanka's featured destination. New visa-free policies, streamlined e-visas, direct flights, and Chinese-language guide services are being rolled out to attract more Chinese tourists.

Moreover, Nepal will send a strong delegation, including top hotels such as Soaltee, Hilton, and Barahi. Cambodia, Germany, Italy, Russia, the USA, the UK, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and many others will also showcase their offerings. TPO (Tourism Promotion Organization for Asia-Pacific Cities) will present emerging destinations like Busan, Pohang, and Kota Bharu. Hong Kong and Macau delegations will bring top attractions, including Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Ocean Park, Macau Tower, and several luxury hotels.

Domestic tourism experiences and cultural immersion

The fair will also highlight domestic tourism from cities such as Beijing, Lhasa, Hainan, Chengdu, Yangzhou, and many more. Key players like China Southern Airlines, Guangzhou Tower, and major travel platforms, including Trip.com, will provide exclusive offers and tourism products. Special zones will transform the fair into a cultural spectacle:

The Intangible Cultural Heritage Zone will showcase Cantonese embroidery, wood puppetry, ivory carving, and more, with artisans present for live demonstrations. The Boutique Homestay Zone will feature top-rated Guangzhou-style accommodations with immersive experiences. The Museum and Creative Culture Zone will bring together institutions like the Nanyue King Museum and Guangzhou Museum of Art, using digital tools to create "micro cultural destinations." A special Guangzhou Pavilion, themed "Blossoming Guangzhou, Blooming Worldwide," will integrate elements of the upcoming 15th National Games, creating interactive sports-themed experiences.

Innovations in travel experience

The fair will debut the "Haishen" expedition cruise ship from Guangdong China Travel Service, the first polar cruise ship with a fully Chinese design, offering curated experiences in language, cuisine, entertainment, and exploration tailored to Chinese travelers. Attendees will also enjoy exclusive promotional offers for polar trips. The exhibition will further feature a "Silver Generation" Square Dance Competition to show the vitality of senior people who have strong tourism consumption power.

As GITF 2025 prepares to open its doors, it positions Guangzhou not only as a tourism hub but as a bold innovator in global travel, blending cultural heritage, sustainable development, and cutting-edge technology to shape the future of tourism.