The Cuban government is banking on the "multiplier effect" of Chinese tourism to boost the island's tertiary sector. Air China will inaugurate its long-awaited air route connecting Beijing to Havana this Friday, with a stopover in Madrid.
This connection, which will operate with two weekly round-trip flights, promises to increase the tourist flow from China to Cuba. Marcelino Medina, the Cuban ambassador to Spain, highlighted that this route will strengthen cooperation ties between the two countries and facilitate exchanges in business and academic sectors.
The Cuban government recently announced a visa exemption for Chinese citizens, a measure that could encourage visits from the Asian giant's travelers. Additionally, China will be the Guest of Honor at the International Tourism Fair of Cuba 2025.
Niurka Pérez, Cuba's Tourism Counselor for Spain, commented that the number of international tourists on the island grew by 51% in 2023 compared to the previous year, and in the first quarter of 2024, it grew by 8%. Oscar Guo, Air China's Sales Director, noted that Madrid acts as a central hub for the company's routes to Latin America.
The new Beijing-Madrid-Havana line, operating on Tuesdays and Fridays, with return flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays, will also facilitate tourist movement from Europe to China.
The regime has been falling short of its tourist arrival plans for nearly half a decade, yet continues to build new luxury hotels that remain empty year-round. In 2023, the projected plan was to reach 3.5 million tourists, but they barely received 70% of their goal. This key sector for the island's struggling economy has yet to show real signs of recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chinese Tourism Impact on Cuba
Here are some relevant questions and answers regarding the impact of Chinese tourism on Cuba, especially considering the new air route and visa exemptions.
How often will the new Beijing-Madrid-Havana route operate?
The new route will operate twice a week, with flights from Beijing to Havana on Tuesdays and Fridays, and return flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to attract Chinese tourists?
The Cuban government has announced a visa exemption for Chinese citizens to encourage tourism. Additionally, China will be the Guest of Honor at the International Tourism Fair of Cuba 2025.
What are the expected benefits of the new air route?
The new route is expected to boost tourist flow from China to Cuba, strengthen cooperation between the two countries, and facilitate business and academic exchanges. It will also aid in tourist movement from Europe to China.