At a tourism fair today, Premier Lin Chuan encouraged travel operators to help make Taiwan a premium tourist destination by improving their product quality and heeding the needs of consumers.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2016 Taipei International Travel Fair, held at the Taipei World Trade Center November 4-7, the premier said the fair is an opportunity not only to present Taiwan's tourism industry to the world, but also to allow international travelers to get to know the island and experience its beauty up close.
Tourism is an essential industry, the premier said, and he was pleased to see over 1,400 exhibitors from 60 countries at the fair, which he said was an indication of the bright potential of Taiwan's travel industry.
Tourism represents many aspects of Taiwan's development, Premier Lin continued. For one, the industry's rise is symbolic of improving quality of life and social progress. Promoting local sites and their unique cultural heritage also enhances Taiwan's social diversity, and brings it closer to the international community. He expressed hope that the industry's upcoming tourism events will serve as important links between Taiwan and the world.
At its core, the tourism industry serves people, and personal experiences are paramount, the premier said. Visitors from around the world can experience the warmth, hospitality and friendliness of the Taiwanese people and see the country's society and culture, which is the best way to promote friendship between Taiwan and other countries.
The premier also said that Taiwan's tourism industry has impressive achievements. Last year the industry generated a total output value of over NT$810 billion (US$25.66 million), with domestic tourism accounting for 45 percent. He said there is still room for improvement, and expressed hoped that Taiwan's travel facilities—both hardware and software—will get even better. Taiwan should also think about ways to expand its tourism client base beyond China and attract more visitors from all over the world.
The increase in the quantity of tourism must be coupled with a rise in quality, Premier Lin said. The local industry should incorporate more uniquely Taiwanese themes into their products including green energy, agriculture and fishing, medical treatment and diagnostic services, localized shopping experiences, cultural creativity, higher education, and even the rich resources of the offshore islands. He looks forward to seeing Taiwan grow into a premium tourist destination that offers a wide range of unique offerings.