Wuhan’s HHAn Polar Ocean Park received the IAC flag, marking the 2027 event countdown. The city aims to promote aquatic research and conservation through a science education museum. Flag Handover Ceremony Celebrates IAC’s Milestone The International Aquarium Congress (IAC) marked a significant moment on November 1, 2024, in Guadalajara, Mexico, with the flag handover ceremony […]
Revised forecast predicts 2024 current account surplus due to strong tourism and remittance growth in Sri Lanka. 2025 deficit expected with increased consumption and imports, with oil price rise as major risk. Key View We have revised our current account forecast to a surplus of 1.9% of GDP for 2024, from a deficit of 1.8% […]
Sri Lanka’s economy grew by 5.3% in Q1 2024, expected to slow to 4.5% in Q2. Forecasted 4.0% growth for the year, driven by rebound in private consumption, tourism sector recovery, and rising wages. Key View Sri Lanka’s economy expanded by 5.3% in Q1 2024, but we think that it will slow to 4.5% in […]
The 2024 Hainan Encouraged Catalogue aims to boost industries in the Hainan Free Trade Port, prioritizing sectors like tourism, modern services, and high technologies. It includes 176 entries across 14 categories, with new additions focusing on cultural tourism, new energy, medicine and health, aviation, aerospace, and environmental protection. The Catalogue offers incentives for foreign investment […]
China has expanded its 144-hour visa-free transit policy to travelers from 54 countries, allowing visits to certain areas without a visa. New locations include Zhengzhou in Henan Province and Yunnan Province. China Expands 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy China has recently expanded its 144-hour visa-free transit policy, allowing travelers from 54 countries to visit select areas […]
Tourist arrivals in the Philippines were up 21.3% in Q1 2024 compared to the previous year, with South Korea being the top source market. Forecast predicts continued growth, reaching 9.4 million arrivals by 2028. The Latest: The most recent data by the Philippines Department of Tourism in April 2024 indicate that the market had 1.6mn tourist […]
Thailand’s health expenditure is expected to grow driven by digital health technologies, medical tourism, and an aging population. Public and private sectors will see growth, with public insurance covering the majority of the population. Healthcare personnel shortages may pose a challenge. Key View Thailand’s public and private health expenditure will grow over our five-year forecast […]
China will allow visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups arriving by cruise ship at 13 ports starting May 15, 2024. Visitors must stay with the same ship and in permitted areas for up to 15 days to boost tourism and enhance cruise industry growth. China Implements Visa-Free Entry for Foreign Tourist Groups on Cruise Ships […]