Chinese Cities Lead Global Tourism Spending Projections for 2032

Key Takeaways

  • Top spenders for domestic tourism are expected to be Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, spending above $100 billion until 2032.
  • American cities of Orlando, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and New York are also expected to experience an increase in domestic tourism spending, still far from Chinese cities in terms of amounts.
  • In Sanya, a tourism destination in China, tourism spending is expected to represent 92 percent of the domestic share - the highest of all of its Chinese competitors, as well as other cities on the list.

In recent data shared by Statista, it has been projected that Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou will emerge as top spenders, with Shanghai dominating the domestic tourism spending as it reaches a staggering $163 billion in 2032. This represents a remarkable 88 percent of the domestic shares, solidifying its position as the leading city for tourism expenditures.

Following closely behind, Beijing is projected to spend $147 billion, representing 89 percent of the domestic shares. The capital city is expected to maintain its status as a major hub for tourism and economic activity, VisaGuide.World reports.

Surprisingly, Orlando in the United States, known for its vibrant theme parks and attractions, is expected to spend $70 billion on domestic tourism, capturing 80 percent of the shares. Meanwhile, Guangzhou, another Chinese city, is set to spend $67 billion, scoring an impressive 91 percent of the domestic shares.

Staying in the United States for a little longer, as Las Vegas, renowned for its entertainment and gaming industry, is projected to spend $58 billion, representing 88 percent of the domestic shares. Sanya, a popular tourist destination in China, is expected to contribute $41 billion to domestic tourism spending, with a remarkable 92 percent share  – the highest of all of its Chinese competitors, as well as other cities on the list.

The global tourism spending projections for 2032 also include Tokyo, which is anticipated to spend $39 billion, capturing 61 percent of the domestic shares. New York is projected to contribute $33 billion with a 60 percent share, while Los Angeles is anticipated to spend $23 billion, securing 76 percent of the domestic shares.

Chengfu, another Chinese city, is set to spend $22 billion, with an 83 percent share of the domestic market.

The report highlights the growing significance of Chinese cities in the global tourism landscape, with Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou becoming top spenders for domestic tourism. The projections indicate a shift in the tourism economy, with these cities playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry.

As these cities continue to invest in infrastructure, attractions, and hospitality, they are poised to attract a substantial share of the global tourism market in the years to come. The projections also underscore the resilience and strength of the tourism sector in the face of global challenges, positioning these cities as key players in the post-pandemic recovery.

Reports have found that domestic trips in China are expected to soar during the Lunar New Year holidays, or Chinese New Year, which falls on February 10.

According to a report from Reuters, a total of nine billion domestic trips are expected to be made during a 40-day period. In addition, more than 80 million air trips during this annual event, or an increase of 9.8 per cent compared to the figures registered in the pre-pandemic times.

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