KUALA LUMPUR - Tourism officials from Asean, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea met on Jan 27 at the 48th Asean Plus Three National Tourism Organisations meeting in Cebu to boost regional tourism cooperation.

The meeting highlighted how closer ties between Asean and its Northeast Asian partners have helped strengthen tourism growth across the region.

Philippine Department of Tourism Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso said continued cooperation was key to sustaining tourism development among participating countries.

“Our partnership is not just a collaboration. It is a vital alliance that highlights the profound role of tourism as a catalyst for unity and mutual prosperity,” Buensuceso said.

She said visitor arrivals from China, Japan and South Korea rose strongly in 2024, supporting the region’s tourism recovery.

Asean recorded more than 20 million visitors from China, over 3 million from Japan and more than 9 million from South Korea last year, she said.

Buensuceso added that arrivals from these markets are expected to grow further in 2025.

She said tourism remains one of Asean’s most active sectors, helping to connect cultures, strengthen understanding and support economic growth.

Buensuceso said the Asean Plus Three Tourism Cooperation Work Plan plays an important role in guiding joint action and dialogue among members.

She said the framework has helped countries address shared challenges while tapping new opportunities in tourism.

Buensuceso also acknowledged the role of the Asean-China Centre, Asean-Japan Centre and Asean-Korea Centre in supporting regional tourism goals.

Looking ahead, she called for a tourism sector that is competitive, resilient and inclusive.

“By strengthening our partnerships, we can champion cultural exchange and foster innovation in travel experiences, thereby enhancing the appeal of our destinations to travelers from every corner of the globe,” she noted.

She urged member states to use the meeting to reaffirm their commitment to cooperation and to protect the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

The meeting was chaired by Japan Tourism Agency Deputy Commissioner Hironobu Nara and attended by tourism officials from all participating economies.

The event was held as part of the Asean Tourism Forum, which aims to support stronger Asean Plus Three tourism cooperation and sustained sector growth.