China’s cruise industry picks up steam, fueling economic growth

With the expansion of cruise routes and ports over the past year, China’s cruise industry is gaining momentum, showing renewed vitality and emerging as a potential driver of economic growth.

This year marks the second operational year of the “Adora Magic City”, China’s first large domestically-built cruise ship. This follows the ongoing construction of China’s second domestically built large cruise ship, the “Adora Flora City” which is set to be delivered by the end of 2026 and will operate regular international cruises from Guangzhou City, south China’s Guangdong Province.

Liu Hui, general manager of CSSC Cruise Technology Development Co., Ltd., shared his optimism about the sector’s future.

“2024 marks a full year of [the ‘Adora Magic City’] operation. With strong government policy support, the industry is poised for strong growth. As China’s economy continues to develop and its people pursue for a better life, cruise tourism is rapidly gaining popularity. Regarding both the supply and consumer sides, we will surely have a very good prospect,” said Liu.

In addition to domestic advancements, international cruise companies are also accelerating their return to China.

Latest data showed that there are three international cruise ships and five local vessels operating across 12 ports in the Chinese mainland.

“We believe that from 2024 onwards, China’s cruise industry is entering its second ‘golden decade.’ What’s happening now? More international tourists come to China to experience cruises. In 2024, global cruise tourism is expected to see 34.7 million passengers. On average, one job is created for every 20 passengers, resulting in the need for over 1.7 million jobs. Cruise ships require dozens to even hundreds of tons of food daily. Additionally, tourists will need accommodation, dining, and transportation in Shanghai, generating a direct economic impact estimated to reach trillions of yuan,” said Ye Xinliang, deputy director of Shanghai International Cruise Business Institute.