Economy Minister joins Tourism Ireland in Shanghai, promoting tourism in China
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald is in Shanghai today (12th December), promoting Northern Ireland at a Tourism Ireland business luncheon event.
Addressing key Chinese travel professionals and media, Minister Archibald spoke of her department’s vision to create a thriving, sustainable tourism industry for the future that will stand out in international markets, including in China.
She reminded the guests that within a couple of hours of landing on the island of Ireland, visitors can be on the Causeway Coast, in central Belfast or on a boat on our inland waterways. Minister Archibald also highlighted some of the other compelling reasons for Chinese visitors to choose Northern Ireland – from our award-winning visitor attractions like Titanic Belfast and Game of Thrones Studio Tour, to our premium accommodation, historic gems of heritage and Michelin-starred restaurants – all combining quality, authenticity and exceptional hospitality.
Minister Archibald said: “We offer something truly distinctive for Chinese visitors – from the spectacular Giant’s Causeway to the tranquil lakes of Fermanagh and the dramatic Mourne Mountains, providing experiences that are both beautiful and unforgettable. I’m delighted to be with Tourism Ireland here in China to showcase the very best of what we have to offer, which will help grow the value of tourism across the north.”
Iris Wang, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Asia, said: “I’m excited to welcome Minister Archibald to our business luncheon event in Shanghai and to introduce her to some of our travel trade and media partners on the ground here, who I work closely with to grow connections to the island of Ireland. Our Chinese visitors are keen to explore our spectacular scenery, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Giant’s Causeway, discover our rich culture and heritage and experience our world-famous hospitality. Events like this provide an excellent platform to highlight the wealth of experiences on offer and ultimately to help to grow tourism business for the island of Ireland from China.”
Iris Wang, Tourism Ireland; Kara Wang, Trip.com; Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald; Christopher Brooke, Chairman of Tourism Ireland; and Yi Lin, HCG Group, at Tourism Ireland’s business luncheon event in Shanghai.
Notes to Editors:
- Tourism Ireland is the organisation responsible for promoting Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland overseas as a leading holiday destination
- NISRA figures for 2024 confirm that overseas tourism to Northern Ireland contributed £633 million to the economy, driven by 2 million overseas tourists, with overseas as 58% of total tourism revenue.
- Tourism Ireland’s international website is www.ireland.com, with 21 market sites available in 18 different countries, as well as one international site, in seven language versions around the world.
- Tourism Ireland is an agency of the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment in Ireland.