(AseanAll)  — Indonesia continues Innovation with Wonderful Indonesia Sales Mission in Shanghai. Indonesia is making strides to promote itself through the Wonderful Indonesia Sales Mission held in Shanghai on November 22,2024,according to Consulate General of Indonesia in Shanghai.

This initiative, a collaboration between the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Shanghai and the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, took place at Sinar Mas Plaza in Shanghai. It represents Indonesia's ongoing efforts to attract Chinese travelers to experience the diverse attractions the country offers.

The event featured 10 Indonesian tourism businesses, including travel agencies, hotels, and tourist attractions, alongside over 15 tourism businesses from China.

A dedicated business meeting highlighted the latest developments in Indonesian tourism and presented innovative travel package potentials. By November 2024, 13 airlines —domestic and Chinese— are operating direct flights from 14 Chinese cities to destinations such as Jakarta, Bali, Manado, and Batam, offering up to 1.1 million seat capacity.

Berlianto Situngkir, Consul General of Indonesia in Shanghai, emphasized Shanghai's importance for Indonesia's tourism industry. "Shanghai consistently ranks among the top five contributors of outbound tourists from mainland China, making it a strategic market for attracting travelers to Indonesia," he stated. He further elaborated on the opportunities to introduce new destinations in Indonesia, such as Labuan Bajo, Lake Toba, Mandalika, and Likupang, which are among Indonesia's five super-priority destinations, with Borobudur as the fifth.

The Indonesian businesses present showcased various appealing destinations, such as Bali, Komodo Island, and the five super-priority destinations. The Ministry of Tourism also outlined plans to position Bali as a hub for travelers to explore other exciting destinations in Indonesia.

China remains a crucial market for Indonesia's tourism sector. In 2023, the number of Chinese tourists to Indonesia reached 787,924, far exceeding the target of 255,500–361,500 visitors. For 2024, the Ministry of Tourism has set an ambitious goal, targeting 1 to 1.5 million Chinese tourists, placing China among the top three contributors of foreign tourists to Indonesia.

"We aim to showcase destinations beyond Bali and Jakarta. We warmly invite Chinese travelers to explore other destinations like Likupang, Yogyakarta, Mount Bromo, Mandalika, Labuan Bajo, and Mount Ijen," said Yusrani Putti Yusron, Head of East Asia Tourism Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism.

Eastern China, encompassing key economic hubs such as Shanghai and provinces like Zhejiang and Jiangsu, stands out as a vital market for Indonesia’s tourism industry. With its large population and steadily rising incomes, the region presents significant potential for growth. Post-pandemic promotions are geared not only to encourage outbound tourism but also to offer unique and high-quality travel experiences in Indonesia.