Tonga won first prize for Promotional Activities and Performance in a 2018 China International Tourism Industry Expo held in Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province.

This international tourism marketing event was attended by over 200 international companies and 60 countries throughout Asia and the Pacific region, from September 6-9

The trophy was presented to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Hon Semisi Sika by the delegation led by Deputy CEO for Tourism, Sione Moala Mafi, tourism representatives and the Ministry’s Masani Cultural Performers.

"Winning this prize has certainly created awareness of Tonga as a Tourist destination amongst Asian countries, but especially in the Guangdong Province and China," said the Minister.

Tourism stated as part of its marketing strategies, Guangdong has been identified as its partner for tourism development for Tonga. It is also a Sister City for Ha’apai, and have provided grants for the development and upgrading of roads to tourism attractions and establishments.

In addition, the Mayor of the Guangdong Province and delegation were in Tonga in July to confirm their assistance to a Sidewalk Project for Nuku’alofa.

"The reciprocal arrangement between the Tonga Government and the Chinese Government ,exempting Chinese nationals from having to apply for a visitor’s visa prior to arrival in Tonga and vice versa, had seen a growing number of Chinese visitors to Tonga in the last two years."

Meanwhile, another Chinese delegation led by Vice Chairman, Mr. Mei of the Tourism Administration of Guangdong Province are expected to visit Tonga next weekend, and continue dialogue on a development partnership, through the Ministry of Tourism.

Guangdong Province and the CITIE 2018 Organizing Committee jointly funded Tonga’s participation in this event.