As part of this week’s China Cruise Shipping conference and trade show in Shanghai, the China Cruise and Yacht Industry Association (CCYIA) has released its vision for the next 10 years. 

The group stressed China needs to accelerate financial and taxation incentives for local cruise enterprises, and suggested a national cruise development fund.

With more ships in the market, some sourcing should be focused on inbound tourism, according to a paper released by the Association. 

Capacity growth coming into the Chinese market should also be managed, encouraging more western cruise lines to introduce tonnage in a sustainable manner.

New capacity should also be marketed correctly, meaning educating the Chinese consumer on different brands and trying to limit price competition. 

“Encourage cruise companies and travel agencies to clarify marketing targets,” said the paper, “and thus establish low-, medium- and high-end cruise products. Encourage them to differentiate themselves.”

A support system for marine and hotel in China is also key, as well as furthering bolstering of recruitment. 

On the local side, the CCYIA hopes more Chinese companies can take part in supplying cruise ships globally, noting that of 10,000 products cruise lines buy, only around 250 come from China.

Read more about the vision for the next 10 years of China’s cruise industry in Cruise Industry News Quarterly Magazine, Winter 2015/2016.