Chinese tourists eyed by other nations

ONE reason for the decrease in Chinese tourist arrivals is because there are now more choices for them as every country wants to woo them, said Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel (MATTA) President Datuk Tan Kok Liang.

"Other reasons could also be due to the economic slowdown in China as well as bookings which are now done through online tour agents and Airbnb", he added.

Star-rated hotels and licensed travel agents are also bracing for a possible drop of between 10pc and 20pc of tourist arrivals from China during the long Chinese New Year break.

"we cannot ascertain the numbers but based on ground sources, there are may be a sllight drop.

"Group arrivals may drop slightly, but the free independent travellers market appears to be picking up", said Tan told the Star.