Reborn” Aiming for New Tourism
Japan Association of Travel Agents
chairman
Hiroyuki Takahashi
At the beginning of the year 2023, we wish you a very Happy New Year.
After more than two and a half years of the Corona disaster, last year was a year in which we took a new step toward the revival of tourism, with a rapid recovery in inbound travel to Japan, coupled with the substantial relaxation of waterfront measures in October and the depreciation of the yen, and international exchange is finally gaining momentum. In the domestic travel market, a recovery was also seen due in part to a tailwind from the prefectural discount and nationwide travel support, and the travel industry as a whole is beginning to show positive signs.
Under these circumstances, we believe that the most important theme for the new year 2023 is how to recover overseas travel. Although the road to recovery for domestic and inbound travel is becoming clear, overseas travel is still at a standstill. While there are external factors such as the weak yen and soaring travel costs, we recognize that the fundamental issue is how to raise customer sentiment and build momentum for overseas travel. Ultimately, I am convinced that a well-balanced recovery in domestic, inbound, and overseas travel will lead to the development of the tourism industry as a whole.
And with the Corona disaster, customer values have changed dramatically. The same applies to travel. In order to continue to be chosen by customers in Japan and abroad, we must provide not only safety and security, but also “value” that matches the needs of the new era. It is necessary to refine tourism materials from a global perspective, create appealing stories, and provide products and services that touch the heartstrings of our customers. In addition, it is essential for the industry as a whole to practice the SDGs and provide environmentally friendly and sustainable travel, including decarbonization.
Responding to this new phase is where the value of a travel agency’s existence is tested. We believe that we will be reborn and continue to expand our market and create new value, and that this will lead to a new stage in the tourism industry.
There are many other issues that need to be addressed. There is a need to rebuild the infrastructure for providing travel, such as the lack of human resources, respond to changes in the procurement environment, improve productivity in the tourism industry as a whole, and address various issues such as DX.
In 2023, our member companies will work together to resolve various issues, create valuable trips that meet the needs of the new era, and meet the expectations of our customers. We look forward to your continued guidance and encouragement in the year ahead.
© Source travel watch
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.