Taiwan Expo paves way for stronger trade partnerships with India, South-east Asia
As Taiwan seeks to reduce its trade dependence on mainland China, it is focusing on bolstering relationships with India and South-east Asian markets through Taiwan Expo 2024, set to take place July 8-10, 2024, at the Bharat Mandapam convention centre in New Delhi.
The seventh edition of Taiwan Expo is jointly organised by the International Trade Administration (TITA), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).
This event aims to enhance trade relations between Taiwan and India, with 120 Taiwanese companies participating, matching pre-Covid levels.
“South-east Asian countries, including India, are major focus markets for Taiwan. India has emerged as a new regional manufacturing hub, attracting more Taiwanese companies to explore opportunities here. We see a significant shift in the semiconductor supply chain to India,” said Keven Cheng, deputy executive director of TAITRA while speaking to TTG Asia during an event in New Delhi discussing the upcoming expo.
Earlier this year, India’s TATA Electronics joined hands with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) for the upcoming US$11 billion AI-enabled semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, Gujarat.
After a hiatus of five years, Taiwan Expo is taking place in Jakarta, Indonesia (May 16-18). The next and last Taiwan Expo for the year will take place in Bangkok, Thailand (November 21-23).
“We organise nearly 30 trade shows in Taipei annually, inviting buyers from Asia to events such as Computex, TIMTOS (Taipei International Machine Tool Show), and TAITRONICS (Taipei International Electronics Show). We aim to diversify our trade away from mainland China, and we are already witnessing growth in business from South-east Asia and Indian markets,” added Cheng.
From January to May 2024, the total bilateral trade volume between Taiwan and India grew by 26 per cent compared to the same period last year. During the same period, Taiwan’s global export growth rate increased by 9.1 per cent compared to the previous year, while exports to India surged by 28.1 per cent.
Cambodia steps up efforts to win over Europe with new campaign
A campaign to promote Cambodia to the French-speaking European market is gaining momentum, with the Kingdom’s first carbon neutral international event hosted under #DestinationCambodge2024 as part of plans to promote the country as a sustainable destination.
The campaign, which is the brainchild of Jacques Guichandut, official representative of the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism for Belgium, France, Monaco and Switzerland, aims to boost the nation’s tourism presence in French-speaking Europe amid strong regional competition.
Guichandut, also founder of All Dreams Cambodia, said: “Our objectives are clear, to deeply penetrate the French-speaking European tourism market, showcase Cambodia’s cultural diversity to the public and industry professionals, develop Cambodia as a sustainable destination, and establish a strong global tourism brand for the country.”
A major part of the campaign has seen an annual calendar of collaborative events drawn up, including a Cambodian fashion show in Paris, an Iron Man rally in Cambodia and the Kingdom’s first carbon neutral international event in the form of Phnom Penh First International Choir Competition.
Achieving carbon neutrality involved calculating the carbon footprint, encompassing emissions from participants’ travel, venue operations, accommodation and related activities.
Strategies were also implemented to minimise emissions, such as using energy-efficient technologies, promoting sustainable transportation options and reducing waste. To offset the remaining emissions, investment was made in verified carbon offset projects that contribute to environmental sustainability.
Guichandut stated that moving forward, organising sustainable events will form a key part of the campaign while positioning Cambodia as a sustainable destination.
“In today’s global context, hosting sustainable events is increasingly vital. They not only mitigate environmental impacts but also align with corporate social responsibility objectives, enhance organisational reputation and meet regulatory requirements,” stated Guichandut.
“Sustainable events are resilient against future environmental challenges and contribute positively to global climate goals.”
Guichandut added that while not every event in the campaign will be carbon-neutral, key activities have been identified. These include events organised around the Francophonie Summit in Paris in October, which Cambodia is preparing to host in 2026.
“These events present significant platforms to showcase Cambodia’s commitment to sustainability on an international stage,” he said, adding that for upcoming events in Paris, the carbon impact of select initiatives organised in collaboration with the Cambodian government will be calculated.
“This initiative represents a pivotal opportunity for Cambodia to lead by example in sustainable event management, demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship and contributing to global efforts in tackling climate change.”
Educational sessions lead the opening of ILTM Asia Pacific 2024
ILTM Asia Pacific 2024 opened last evening with informative market insights presented at its Opening Forum held at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, where keynote speakers detailed economic performance for the coming years and the rising trend of solo Chinese female travellers.
Sumana Rajarethnam, director, South-east Asia of the Economist Intelligence Corporate Network, took the audience through global economic projections as well as the opportunities and threats facing the various regions.
He noted that Asian economies were one to watch, as rising median household income in various countries, such as Malaysia, China, Thailand, Indonesia, India and Vietnam, would spur consumption.
Later on, Jenny Lo, managing director of Finn Partners, laid out key findings from her firm’s latest study on China’s female travellers, conducted in partnership with ILTM Asia Pacific. Growing financial independence and self-confidence of Chinese women are spurring luxury solo trips, with a majority making travel choices based on their own desires and seeking travel to “nourish their soul and enrich their life”.
Almost 90 per cent of high-end Chinese female travellers are drawn to niche destinations that have yet to attract the attention of the mass market, leading Lo to describe this critical customer segment as “travel pioneers”.
Finn Partners’ complete report is available for download here.
ILTM Asia Pacific 2024 continues today with business matching sessions at Sands Expo & Convention Centre.
OAG shares air travel insights with newest report
OAG has released its latest industry report, The Future of the Airline Passenger Experience, a comprehensive report that explores three pivotal aspects reshaping the modern air travel experience: Flight Booking, Inflight Entertainment, and Airline Loyalty.
Each section offers insights into the transformative impact of technology, data, and innovation on passenger interactions with airlines.
Flight Booking, which analyses the impact of technological advancements on passenger journey planning and booking, also explores how advanced digital platforms and personalised experiences are set to redefine the booking process, enhancing convenience and flexibility for travellers.
Inflight Entertainment delves into the evolution of entertainment systems aboard aircraft and traces the journey from communal screens to personalised streaming services. It underscores how technology continues to reshape the inflight experience, offering passengers an expanding and increasingly immersive offering of entertainment and retail choices at their fingertips.
Lastly, Airline Loyalty illuminates shifting dynamics in customer engagement within the airline industry. Traditional loyalty models are evolving into more flexible approaches as airlines strive to forge deeper connections with a new generation of travellers and adapt to evolving expectations.
Jeremy Burke, chief commercial officer at OAG, commented: “The airline industry is undergoing a transformative shift propelled by technology and data. The Future of the Airline Passenger Experience report provides a comprehensive exploration of these transformations, highlighting how airlines and the aviation industry leverage innovation to enhance every facet of the passenger journey.”
The report also presents opportunities for growth in the airline sector, underscoring OAG’s commitment to providing valuable resources for industry stakeholders navigating this dynamic landscape.
Read the full report here.
PTAA stages inaugural TravelTour Expo in Visayas, Mindanao
The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) will finally bring its TravelTour Expo (TTE) to Visayas and Mindanao (VisMin) after 30 years.
Set on July 19 to 21, the first TTE VisMin is the biggest travel event ever staged in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, and will be held at the Limketkai Atrium in Cagayan de Oro City.
In partnership with the Department of Tourism, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Hong Kong Tourism Board, and UnionBank, the three-day expo will be a one-stop platform for travel enthusiasts to connect and explore a vast array of travel opportunities and special travel deals.
Over 50 exhibitors, including airlines, hotels, resorts, and tourism boards, will showcase their offerings through interactive exhibits and engaging booths. Exclusive discounts on flights, accommodation, and tours await expo-goers.
The TTE VisMin is expected to draw thousands of visitors from across the region, reflecting the growing interest and enthusiasm for travel and tourism in the Philippines.
PTAA president Evangeline Tankiang-Manotok said: “This inaugural TTE VisMin marks a significant milestone for PTAA. We are thrilled to bring this premier event to Cagayan de Oro City, a destination strategically located at the heart of VisMin and brimming with vibrant energy.”
She added: “This event represents a unique opportunity for travellers and industry professionals to come together, exchange ideas, and discover new destinations and experiences. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Cagayan de Oro City for an unforgettable event.”
Enjoy a free Dubai stay when flying with Emirates
From now to July 21, travellers who purchase an Emirates return ticket in First Class or Business Class will be able to enjoy a complimentary two-night stay at the five-star luxury hotel JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai.
Those travelling in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can enjoy a complimentary one-night stay.
This special offer is valid for all return tickets to or stopping over in Dubai for more than 24 hours, for travel dates between July 4 and September 15 this year.
The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is the world’s tallest five-star hotel, offering visitors some of the most breath-taking views of the city’s skyline. It is centrally located beside the Dubai Water Canal, with some of Dubai’s most popular attractions, including The Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, The Dubai Fountain and Dubai Opera less than a 10-minute drive away.
The hotel is also home to a collection of more than 12 restaurants, bars and lounges.
For more information, visit Emirates.
Desaru Coast presents weekend fun with Ombak Festival
Desaru Coast will host the Ombak Festival from September 13 to 15, which promises a weekend of fun for all with an array of events and activities across music and performances, F&B, visual arts and craft, and for the younger festival goers, Ombak Kids.
Performances at Ombak Festival will feature 16 hours of Ombak Main Stage programming, including an Asia-exclusive performance by pop culture icon Grace Jones; Grammy winner and R&B Hall of Famer Macy Gray; and Swedish band The Cardigans playing their global smash hits. Ombak Festival will also present a series of performances by some of the biggest names in the regional music scene, including Alena Murang, Thee Marloes, and Aisyah Aziz.
Guests can experience an explosion of Malaysian and international food and drinks by some of the region’s top chefs and mixologists with a series of culinary delights throughout the destination.
Art lovers will be captivated by intricate installations that celebrate Malaysia’s and the region’s artistic heritage, while those who love to shop will revel in the two marketplaces.
The fun extends to even the youngest of guests through the Ombak Kids programme of family-friendly activities. From the Silent Disco Kids edition to Mereka Garden Games; from Junglewalla eco-adventures and Flying Kites to Sailing Jongs – there will be a variety of interactive workshops, games, and entertainment for the young and the young at heart.
All four five-star Desaru Coast resorts – The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, and One&Only Desaru Coast – are within walking distance of the picturesque festival sites. The Ombak Festival Stay Packages are exclusive to Desaru Coast resorts, and are designed for two adults with complimentary stay for one child aged 12 and under.
The packages include accommodation and breakfast; Festival Opening Party on September 13; Festival Weekend Passes; access to Ombak Kids programmes and Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast; and selected food offerings.
Guests can enjoy the best rates with Early Stay Packages, which are now one sale till July 13. Festival Day Passes, Festival 2-Day Passes, and travel information will be announced on July 22.
For more information, visit Ombak Festival.
Lily Beach Resort & Spa makes two appointments
Lily Beach Resort & Spa has named Laurent Driole as its general manager and Ali Arushad as the front office manager.
Previously the resort manager of Lily Beach, Driole will lead the team in maintaining standards and providing experiences that delight guests under the Lily ethos.
Arushad, who also works closely with Laurent to boost in-resort sales and enhance guest experiences, initially began his career as a receptionist. His most recent role was as butler manager at the sister property of Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.
SWISS welcomes new CEO
Jens Fehlinger has been named the new CEO of Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS).
He started his professional career at the Lufthansa Group in 2006, where he held various management positions. He was in charge of strategy and business development at Lufthansa Airlines and the operational performance management for Lufthansa Group.
In recent years, Fehlinger has been co-managing director of Lufthansa Cityline and managing director of the new airline Lufthansa City Airlines.
The Park Lane Hong Kong is celebrating 50 years in business this year.
It all began in 1974 when The Park Lane Hong Kong, owned by the Chan family, first opened its doors under the name Hotel Plaza, which was part of a cluster of great hotels in Causeway Bay, together with the Lee Garden hotel and The Excelsior.
Since then, this sole grand dame has been a fixture here – it underwent a transformation in 1985 and was renamed The Park Lane Hong Kong, encapsulating the hotel’s commitment to offering timeless luxury, personalised experiences, and perfecting the art of hospitality.
Today, the hotel boasts 807 rooms and 13 suites, an executive lounge, three distinctive dining venues and over 1,700m² of event spaces, as well as recreational facilities.
The property’s continuous investments, modernisation and unique repositioning has strengthened its appeal to today’s traveller.
Next year in 2025, The Park Lane Hong Kong will join Marriott’s Autograph Collection under a 15-year franchise deal.
Luc Bollen, general manager of The Park Lane Hong Kong, shared: “We embarked on a transformational repositioning of the hotel in early 2015. The classic feel was replaced by a tech-savvy, engaging and interactive feel, all restaurants were completely recreated, and state-of-the-art meeting facilities were developed on the highest floors with breathtaking views over the views of the harbour, Victoria Park, and the Kowloon skyline. Rooms were turned into contemporary yet classy and tech-rich experiences. Today, SKYE Roofbar & Dining has become iconic in the Hong Kong dining vibe.”
He continued: “In order to bring our farm-to-table culinary concept to life, we have established our own rooftop Secret Garden, where we source fresh fruits, herbs, and spices. It also highlights the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and low carbon emission, ensuring an eco-friendly and sustainable future.”
In addition, The Park Lane Hong Kong’s dedicated staff members, many of whom have been with the property for a decade or more, are at the core of its exceptional service.
Over the years, the hotel has hosted heads of state and other celebrities. In recent years, it welcomed notable guests like US vice president Dan Quayle, as well as top celebrities such as Japanese actor Koji Yakusho, British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, British singer Henry Moodie, and Australian celebrity chefs Curtis Stone and Dan Hong.
Additionally, The Park Lane Hong Kong has served as the official hotel for various events, including the Soccer Sevens, Hong Kong Open (tennis), World Open (snooker) 2024, FIBA 3×3 World Tour 2024, and Clockenflap 2023, a music and arts festival.
The property is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a theme of Where Heritage Meets Innovation. Since November 2023, a series of celebratory events centred around art, sustainability, heritage, and innovation have been launched.
Bollen contended: “My vision for The Park Lane Hong Kong is to strengthen it as a community icon in Causeway Bay, and to engage meaningfully with all stakeholders over the next 50 years. My greatest aspiration is for the hotel to be recognised as a benchmark for exceptional guest experiences, locally and globally. We strive to meticulously tailor every aspect of our guests’ stay to their needs and expectations. I firmly believe that the hospitality industry thrives on creativity, flexibility, and adaptability.
“By embracing innovations and staying abreast of new trends, we can continually raise the bar and provide even better guest experiences. Moreover, during my time here at The Park Lane Hong Kong, I am excited to lead my team in adopting more sustainable practices. By prioritising sustainability, we aim to make a positive impact on the environment and encourage others in the hospitality industry to follow suit.”