The China-Malta Tourism Cooperation and Exchange Conference was held on January 16, 2026 at the China Cultural Centre in Malta, under the auspices of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malta and organised by the centre.
The conference brought together representatives from acrosso Malta’s tourism sector, including officials, tourism authorities, hotels, travel agencies, airlines and other stakeholders with a strong interest in strengthening tourism cooperation between Malta and China.
As the first tourism-focused exchange event of its kind held in Malta in recent years, the conference provided a practical platform for dialogue, experience-sharing and collaboration, with participants exploring opportunities to further enhance bilateral tourism links.
Delivering the keynote address, Zhang Zuo, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Malta, emphasised that tourism cooperation between the two countries rests on a solid foundation and offers strong potential for future growth.
He highlighted China’s commitment to developing its tourism sector under the 15th Five-Year Plan, noting the alignment of these goals with Malta’s Vision 2050, which recognises tourism as a pillar industry.
Referring to President Xi Jinping’s Global Civilisation Initiative, Zhang underlined China’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Malta through cultural exchange and people-to-people connectivity.
“Tourism cooperation between the two countries rests on a solid foundation”
Charles Mangion, chairperson of the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), reaffirmed the central role of tourism in connecting people and fostering mutual understanding. He noted Malta’s growing visibility among Chinese travellers and reiterated the MTA’s long-standing commitment to China as a strategic market, highlighting ongoing cooperation with travel partners and airlines, as well as recent joint promotional initiatives.
He also welcomed China’s visa facilitation measures, which have enhanced travel convenience and expanded opportunities for exchange.
Chen Xiao, director of the China Cultural Centre in Malta, shared information on China’s latest inbound tourism policies, outlining key visa facilitation arrangements for Maltese travellers and recent improvements in travel services.
She also introduced the ‘Nihao China’ App, China’s official national tourism promotion platform, which offers comprehensive travel information, bookings and cultural experiences through a single QR code.
The exchange included a screening of a Chinese tourism promotional video, a pipa performance and a Hanfu fashion presentation, which were warmly received by the audience.
