[DAVOS] Jane Sun, CEO of Ctrip, highlighted the current security challenges facing the travel industry as well as analyzing how tourism is conducive to the promotion and momentum of global economic growth at the 48th World Economic Forum(WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.
The theme of the Forum this year "Creating a Shared Future in a Fractured World" makes a case for renewed commitment to international collaboration especially when WEF's Global Risks Report 2018 revealed that 59% of nearly 1000 global experts and policymakers believe that risks will increase this year.
At the panel of "Shaping the Future of Security in Travel," Jane Sun shared some of Ctrip's emergency response services. The "Global SOS" service, launched in 2017 has been well received by users. Global SOS provides not only translation assistance, medical guidance and recovery of lost goods but also timely support in emergency situations such as natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Ctrip's effective response in the Las Vegas shooting, Bali volcano eruption and Alaska earthquake reflects the efficiency and need of such services. Ctrip also provides 24/7 call centers, Virtual Travel Manager, professional tour escorts, access to more than 5,000 local guides and more.
Interpol's Secretary General, Jürgen Stock said, "In our interdependent, interconnected world, security is our collective responsibility. Collaboration and information sharing underpin our efforts." Dr Jitendra Singh from the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, India added, "We are optimistic about the future of tourism and we look forward to sharing knowledge and resources with Ctrip."
As the global economy faces a lack of growth momentum, tourism is a great way to solve such difficulties. With the deepening of the "One Belt and One Road" Initiative, China's travel industry will continue to see growth in the future. Official Chinese figures have predicted more than 700 million outbound trips in the next five years. Jane Sun emphasized that Chinese tourists are not just the beneficiaries of the global economy but also the contributors. She added, "China has become the world's largest source of outbound tourists. Considering that only 10 percent of Chinese hold a passport, we anticipate a period of explosive growth in the next decade.
