By Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) has announced the opening of a new Taiwan Tourism Information Centre (TTIC) in Mumbai, India, marking its comeback into the Indian market after more than three years of hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The TTIC will serve as a one-stop shop for all the information related to travel, tourism and hospitality in the island nation.
The TTIC is located at the Raheja Platinum on the Andheri-Kurla Road, a prominent business hub in Mumbai. The centre will provide various services and resources for travellers, tour operators, media and trade partners who are interested in exploring Taiwan’s wonders. These include:
- Brochures, maps, guides and other promotional materials about Taiwan’s attractions, culture, cuisine, festivals, events and activities.
- Assistance and consultation for visa, flight, hotel, tour and travel package bookings.
- Training and education programs for travel agents and industry professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills on Taiwan’s tourism products and services.
- Marketing and publicity campaigns to raise awareness and interest in Taiwan as a destination among the Indian market.
The TTIC will also act as a liaison between Taiwan’s tourism stakeholders and their Indian counterparts, facilitating cooperation and exchange of information and best practices.
TTIC: A Sign of Taiwan’s Commitment to the Indian Market
The opening of the TTIC in Mumbai is a sign of Taiwan’s commitment and determination to reconnect and rebuild its relationship with the Indian market, which has been severely affected by the pandemic. According to TTA, Taiwan received only 1,200 Indian visitors in 2020, a sharp decline from the 35,000 visitors in 2019.
However, TTA is optimistic that the situation will improve in 2024, as Taiwan plans to resume its flights and tourism activities with India, subject to the health and safety protocols and regulations of both countries. TTA expects to attract 20,000 Indian visitors in 2024, and aims to reach the pre-pandemic level of 40,000 visitors by 2025.
To achieve this goal, TTA has launched a series of initiatives and events to promote Taiwan as a safe, diverse and attractive destination for Indian travellers. These include:
- Participating in the OTM travel trade show in Mumbai, India’s largest B2B travel exhibition, where Taiwan showcased its latest developments and offerings to the Indian buyers and media.
- Hosting a destination seminar and networking event, where Taiwan’s tourism delegation, led by Dr. Trust Lin, Deputy Director General of TTA, shared their insights and updates on Taiwan’s tourism recovery and strategies.
- Collaborating with local artists and influencers, who created Taiwan-inspired artworks and content in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, to generate buzz and curiosity about Taiwan among the Australian and New Zealand markets, which are closely linked to the Indian market.
TTIC: A Celebration of Taiwan’s Friendship with India
The opening of the TTIC in Mumbai is not only a business move, but also a celebration of Taiwan’s friendship and bond with India, which dates back to centuries. Taiwan and India share many similarities and commonalities, such as their rich and diverse cultures, religions, languages, cuisines and arts. Taiwan also appreciates and respects India’s achievements and contributions in various fields, such as democracy, science, technology, education and entertainment.
Dr. Lin, who led the Taiwan’s tourism delegation, expressed his gratitude and affection for the Indian market, saying, “The Indian market has always been a cherished treasure, close to my heart. This is the primary reason for my return to Mumbai, and it feels like coming home. Today isn’t just a formal announcement of TTIC inauguration, it’s a celebration of reconnection, a renewal of our bond with this incredible land and its people.”
He also invited the Indian travellers to visit Taiwan and experience its beauty and hospitality, saying, “Our plans for the Indian market are ambitious and far-reaching. We are here not just to say ‘We are back’, but to show our commitment, our dedication, and most importantly, our heartfelt invitation for you to come and discover Taiwan’s magic.”
For more information on Taiwan and the TTIC, visit taiwan.net.tw.