The China Pacific Tourism Year (CPTY) was launched in Samoa on 1st April, six months after it was announced by Chinese president Xi Jinping when he met with Pacific Island Country Leaders before the Asia-Pacific Economic last year. Mr. Luo Shugang, Chinese Minister of Culture and Tourism attended the opening ceremony and enjoyed joint cultural performances provided by China Coal Mine Art Troupe and South Pacific students studying in China. Fijian Prime Minister Hon. Bainimarama and Chinese President Xi  Jinping also sent their congratulatory messages.

The concept of the CPTY was first developed by the South Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO), a regional organization based in Suva to strengthen the cooperation between China and the Pacific in the tourism sector, connect people in the tourism industry in China and the region as well as increase awareness and understanding of the Pacific Island destinations in the Chinese market.

Last year over 50,000 Chinese tourists visited Fiji, the most popular destination which attracts more than 40% tourists in the South Pacific. With deeper cooperation on promotion, training and research heralded by the launch China Pacific Tourism Year, Fiji among all the other Pacific  Islands aim to provide a better experience for Chinese tourists.