Aim persists for drawing in 10 million tourists this year by the Ministry
Taiwan Boosts Domestic and International Tourism with Unique Experiences
Taiwan is making strides in revitalizing its tourism industry, focusing on unique travel experiences and themed itineraries to support the domestic accommodation sector. The efforts are yielding positive results, as the number of domestic tourists reached an all-time high of 222 million last year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
One of the key initiatives involves promoting golf tourism, with Taiwan showcasing its more than 70 world-class golf courses to attract high-net-worth individuals and corporate travelers from markets like India. The Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) is partnering with travel agencies and stakeholders to create bespoke golf packages that include luxury resorts, hot springs, and cultural experiences.
In addition to golf tourism, TTA has been conducting road shows and trade engagements in key Indian cities, extending its outreach to East India. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance Taiwan's visibility and appeal as a travel destination, leveraging its "TAIWAN – Waves of Wonder" campaign.
To boost inbound tourism, Taiwan has extended its 14-day visa-free entry to the Philippines, effective July 1, 2025. This move is expected to increase travel between the two countries and solidify the Philippines as a key Southeast Asian source market for Taiwan.
Regions like Pingtung are hosting music festivals and cultural events to attract visitors. Although there are concerns about oversaturation, these events have contributed to local economic recovery.
The administration is also targeting niche markets, such as railway enthusiasts from Taiwan and Japan, by inviting them to explore new routes.
Chen Yu-xiu, the Tourism Administration Director-General, mentioned that short trips have become mainstream because of Taiwan's convenient transportation. In fact, approximately 75 percent of domestic trips last year were one-day trips, up from 71 percent in 2023 and 66 percent before the pandemic.
Looking ahead, the administration has many promotional campaigns planned for the second half of the year. Taiwan aims to receive 10 million inbound visitors this year, but expects 9 million to be a more realistic target. According to a special report presented by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the number of inbound visitors in the first half of the year is projected to exceed 4.19 million, a 10 percent increase from the same period last year.
These strategies have contributed to increased momentum in Taiwan's tourism sector, expanding its market reach and diversifying its visitor profile. The post-pandemic growth is evident, with a 20.81% increase in Indian visitors last year, making India one of Taiwan's top source markets. The Philippines, in particular, is emerging as a significant player, with more than 470,000 Filipino tourists visiting Taiwan in 2024, making the Philippines Taiwan's largest Southeast Asian source market and fifth globally.
[1] Taiwan Tourism Bureau [2] Taiwan Tourism Bureau - Media Center [3] Central News Agency [4] Taipei Times
- To further expand its market reach and attract a broader range of tourists, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau is also focusing on providing comprehensive general-news coverage of its tourism initiatives and lifestyle, hoping to interest a wider audience.
- In addition to promoting tourism, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau - Media Center is also monitoring political developments and trends in travel, aiming to offer insights into how these factors may impact Taiwan's travel industry and overall lifestyle.
