Tonga is looking to attract more Chinese visitors.

A delegation from the China Tourism Academy of Beijing visited Nuku'alofa on August 13-15 at a part of a Pacific visit to further develop tourism between the two countries.

It was led by Mr Dai Bin, President and professor of the research academy, which is part of China's Ministry of Culture.

Tonga's Ministry of Tourism on August 14, said  the visit also aimed to foster business relationships between Tonga and China. 

The delegation met the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Hon Semisi Sika, tourism staff and tourism operators.

CEO for Ministry of Tourism Sione Moala said Chinese President Xi at the Asia Pacific Forum meeting in November last year, in Papua New Guinea had said 2019 would be the China-Pacific Tourism Year.

Papiloa Foliaki, a hotel operator believed the opening up of the Chinese tourist market would benefit the local economy. While, travel and tour operator Staford ‘Aho saw this is a good opportunity for China to assist with the development of tourism in Tonga. 

The delegation left Tonga for Fiji and Vanuatu.

The visit was organized by Mr Zhinning, Tourism and Trade Commissioner at the Chinese Embassy in Tonga and Tonga's Ministry of Tourism.