NSW Government Announces Marketing Agreement with Air China to Boost Visitor Numbers

The NSW Government has announced its first co-operative marketing agreement with Air China, aimed at generating additional visitor growth to Sydney and Regional NSW from the State's number one international source market.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the marketing agreement will help deliver more opportunities to showcase the State and the NSW tourism industry to visitors from China.

“We are delighted to be working with Air China, through our tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, bringing even more Chinese visitors to our fantastic city and surrounding NSW regions,” Mr Ayres said.

“In the year ended December 2015, NSW welcomed nearly 567,000 Chinese visitors, who for the second time, spent over $2 billion in NSW, at $2.3 billion.

“This agreement demonstrates the NSW Government is focused on increasing visitation from China which is our number one inbound tourism market. We look forward to welcoming many more Chinese visitors to our State.”

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said the agreement will run in partnership with key Air China travel trade partners who will work with Destination NSW to develop and promote Sydney and Regional NSW itineraries and packages.

“Destination NSW is focussed on expanding the China market and encouraging more Chinese visitors to fly directly to Sydney, and then on to discover the outstanding experiences Regional NSW has to offer,” Ms Chipchase said.

“There are many wonderful regional destinations within a short drive or flight from Sydney for Chinese visitors to explore such as our world-class food and wine, golf courses, nature experiences, attractions and local festivals and events.”

The agreement will include the promotion of travel offers to Sydney and Regional NSW through Air China's 'Phoenix Miles' Frequent Flyer program which has over 36.38 million members, targeting the Silver/Gold and Platinum members.