A hassle-free visa application process is one of the main factors destinations need to consider to increase Chinese outbound visitor arrivals, WTM Vision Conference - Shanghai delegates heard this week.

Destinations are desperate to increase the number of Chinese tourists due to their high spending habits. In the first session Euromonitor International China Travel and Tourism Analyst Ray Li predicted Chinese tourists will spend $36 billion on shopping when overseas, which is double the amount they spent in 2011.  

Speaking as part of the panel debate on the Chinese inbound and outbound markets, General Manager of MIKI Travel Cecelia Zhou told a packed room of delegates a smooth visa application process is vital for Chinese travellers when deciding their next overseas holiday destination.

Executive President of Jin-Jiang International Travel Ge Wanjun added Chinese people leave booking their holiday until the very last minute so visa application processes need to be made quick, easy and accessible.

Other factors destinations need to consider when trying to attract this increasing market is the "joint exercise from both the private and public sectors" CEO of TUI Travel China Marcel Schneider commented.

"There is a need to be willing to invest money, HR and time to develop the destination in order to meet the Chinese market’s expectations," Schneider added.

President and General Manager of Anhui Region in China Li Guoqing explained: “Chinese tourists really need to be educated on outbound destinations, what is there to do? What is there to eat? Where is there to stay? In order to attract a high numbers of Chinese tourists.” 

Reed Travel Exhibitions Director World Travel Market Simon Press, who opened WTM Vision Conference – Shanghai, said: "WTM Vision Conference Shanghai offered a fascinating insight to the Chinese tourism industry.

"Chinese tourists are in high demand due to their high in resort spending patterns and delegates heard the secrets to attracting high numbers of visitors from China.

"The event, in association with Chinese Business Network, is a great addition to the Vision portfolio, following on from similarly highly successful events in Moscow, London and Dubai.”

The final event in the 2012 series, WTM Vision Conference – Florence, takes place next Friday