European cities collaborate to tackle the markets of the future

ECM (European Cities Marketing, an association grouping 134 important European tourism offices), with the financial support of IMEX and the presence of Ray Bloom (Chairman of IMEX), organized the 2nd CEO Dinner, this time enhanced by an afternoon workshop and discussion. Two major topics were discussed during this meeting: the economic situation and the Chinese market in Europe. Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President of the World Travel and Tourism Council, gave participants important data concerning the impact of the economic environment on travel and tourism. In his presentation, he outlined several forecasts of future economic development and also pointed out that, despite some expectations, the market is still growing – within its niches.

Mr. Mang Chen, Managing Director of CAISSA Touristic Group AG, introduced the context of the Chinese market in Europe within the political and historical background of China and Europe. He offered an insider´s view on the Chinese incoming market by providing information about difficulties when organizing touristic circuits and stays for Chinese tourists in Europe.