The 2024 China International Travel Mart (CITM) opened in Shanghai on Friday, promoting the growth of global tourism through novel experiences that embrace new technologies and old traditions.
With the theme "Nihao, China," this year's CITM, organized by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is being held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) from Friday to Sunday.
While a significant portion of the approximately 53,000 square meters of exhibition space is dedicated to China's domestic and cultural tourism, other areas of the floor entice visitors to explore exciting cultures across Asia and the world.
One of the most popular attractions at the exhibition is the Japanese pavilion, where visitors are treated to traditional performances rich with dance and music.
"The aim of participating in this year's CITM is to showcase the charm of various regions in Japan," said Hiroshi Yakumaru, executive director of the Shanghai office of Japan's National Tourism Organization.
Another highlight of this year's CITM is the VR exhibit, "Back to Sanxingdui – A Fantastic Journey to the Ancient Shu Kingdom", which invites visitors on a journey through ancient culture, seamlessly blending rich heritage with cutting-edge VR technology.
"We have around seven scenes, starting at the museum and taking visitors back to the ancient Shu civilization. After a series of explorations, they will return to the museum," said Bi Yanhao, Chief Technology Officer of Aicmeta.
The CITM is China's premier international travel exhibition and the largest of its kind in Asia. Starting from 2001, the event has alternated between Shanghai and Kunming, the provincial capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, each year.
This year's event has attracted more than 1,000 international exhibitors from over 80 countries and regions, alongside nearly 600 overseas travel agencies, while over 600 business-to-business meetings are scheduled to be held during the event.
2024 China International Travel Mart kicks off in Shanghai, showcasing global tourism options
China's planned removal of tariffs on African products has opened an unprecedented opportunity for Moroccan potters, who are already adapting their ancestral craftsmanship to win over the Chinese market.
China will implement zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, starting May 1, 2026.
In a local pottery market in Rabat, Morocco's capital, artisans are busy fulfilling orders for decorated plates, colorful tagines, and handcrafted vases, hoping that the tariff elimination will further ease their access to China's vast consumer market.
"Pottery has a rich history, and we are committed to preserving this traditional craft. What keeps us going is the support of customers from Morocco and abroad. With the recent opening of the Chinese market and the possibility of exporting our products tariff-free, our creations can now reach that immense market, something that truly delights us," said Youssef El Rahamli, a Moroccan artisan and exporter.
For him, opening up to China represents a significant milestone. Foreign demand has allowed him to increase production and hire more workers. In his workshop, several young people are now working to shape and decorate pieces destined for export.
According to Rahamli, the zero-tariff policy could reduce costs and make Moroccan pottery more competitive, offering new income opportunities for local artisans.
Economists say they believe that easier access to the Chinese market could create new opportunities for Morocco's traditional industries.
"So I believe this measure presents real opportunities for Moroccan companies, because it will enhance the competitiveness of exporters. There will surely be an increase in export volumes, particularly for agricultural products, phosphates and their derivatives, industrial goods, and artisanal products. But all of this depends on Moroccan exporters' ability to improve their offerings and services, diversify exports, and move toward high-value-added exports. And, of course, it is also important to adopt a digital-focused trade strategy and strengthen their presence at trade fairs in China to reach Chinese consumers," said Khalid Achibane, a Moroccan economic expert.
China's tariff removal opens door for Moroccan potters
