Thursday, December 5, 2024
In a groundbreaking move for the global tourism industry, China has played a central role in the formulation of the first-ever international tourism standards focused on information and consultation services. Released by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) on November 13, these new guidelines mark a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of tourism services worldwide.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which shared the details of the new standards on December 5, 2024. These standards represent China’s leadership in international tourism standardization and emphasize the country’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism development globally. This milestone establishes China as a key player in setting the global framework for tourism services, specifically focusing on improving the quality of information and consultation available to travelers.
The standards address six critical areas essential to the tourism experience: main content, work requirements, destination promotions, service personnel, infrastructure, and the management of suggestions and complaints. These areas were identified based on extensive research and feedback from stakeholders in the tourism industry, and the aim is to provide a more streamlined, informative, and efficient experience for global travelers.
Key Improvements in the New Standards
One of the major upgrades in these new standards is the inclusion of a broader range of service providers in tourism information and consultation services. Traditionally, this role was limited to a select few entities such as travel agencies or tourist information offices. However, the new standards expand the scope to include hotels, transportation companies, and even local attractions, enabling a more integrated approach to tourism information services. This shift ensures that tourists receive accurate and relevant information across all aspects of their travel, from arrival to departure.
The content provided by service providers is also significantly expanded. Beyond traditional tourist information, the new guidelines recommend that providers offer detailed insights into ticket purchasing, currency exchange options, available health services, safety measures, and foreign language assistance. This holistic approach is designed to make the travel experience smoother and more accessible for tourists from all over the world.
One of the most important features of the new standards is the emphasis on the use of modern technology. Providers are encouraged to leverage digital tools and online platforms to enhance their consultation services. Whether through mobile apps, websites, or social media, the goal is to provide travelers with up-to-date, easily accessible information at every stage of their journey. By integrating advanced technologies, the standards aim to streamline travel planning, making it easier for tourists to find the information they need in real time.
A Step Toward Global Sustainable Tourism Development
This landmark initiative is not just a technical achievement; it’s also a part of China’s broader effort to foster sustainable tourism. The guidelines encourage service providers to consider environmental impacts and sustainability when offering tourism information. By ensuring that travelers have access to information about sustainable travel options, the new standards are expected to contribute to the development of a more responsible tourism industry worldwide.
The standards also highlight the importance of customer service in tourism. They provide specific recommendations for service personnel, including qualifications, training requirements, and customer interaction protocols. This focus on human resources ensures that tourists are not only informed but also receive assistance in a professional and courteous manner.
China’s leadership in setting these new international standards signals a new era for global tourism. The country’s role in shaping these guidelines reflects its growing influence in the tourism sector, both as a key source market for travelers and as a destination in its own right. As the world’s largest outbound tourism market, China’s contributions to international tourism standards are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the global industry.
The Future of Tourism Standards
The release of these international tourism standards is just the beginning. Officials from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism have indicated that this is part of a larger effort to continuously improve global tourism services. The goal is to ensure that the tourism industry evolves in line with the changing needs of travelers, driven by innovation, sustainability, and a focus on customer-centric service.
China’s involvement in this initiative demonstrates the country’s commitment to global collaboration and leadership in sustainable tourism development. The introduction of these international standards will not only benefit tourists but also encourage the high-quality growth of the global tourism industry.
For more information on the new international tourism standards, please visit the official website of the International Organization for Standardization.
Conclusion
With the introduction of these comprehensive tourism standards, China is leading the charge in transforming the global tourism landscape. By improving the quality of information and consultation services and embracing modern technology, China is setting a new benchmark for tourism providers worldwide. These standards are a significant step toward building a more efficient, customer-friendly, and sustainable tourism industry that benefits both travelers and the environment.
The tourism sector worldwide will likely see improvements in service delivery, accessibility, and sustainability as a result of these new guidelines, and China’s contribution to this global initiative highlights the country’s increasing influence in the world tourism market.