TravTalk India Online Magazine
Taiwan is gaining popularity among Indian tourists, thanks to its streamlined visa process, attractive incentives, and focus on MICE sector. With a 20 per cent increase in Indian visitors in 2024, Taiwan aims to attract 50,000 Indian tourists by 2025 end, highlighting its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and seamless travel experience.
Surbhi Sharma
With its strategic initiatives, Taiwan is well on its way to becoming a favoured destination for Indian tourists, offering a seamless travel experience and an exciting
blend of natural beauty and
cultural attractions.
Paul Shih, Director, Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA), Singapore Office, said, “The Indian tourism market is growing rapidly, catching the attention of global tourism boards, including the TTA. Taiwan has become a significant destination for Indian travellers, offering a variety of attractions and a streamlined visa process. After the pandemic, we have launched several marketing campaigns, cultural initiatives, and incentive programs to attract more visitors from India.”
Big plans for 2025
Indian footfall to Taiwan is experiencing significant growth. According to Shih, they expect nearly 20 per cent increase in Indian visitor arrivals in 2024. They were confident of surpassing 38,000 Indian arrivals in 2024.
“This trend is expected to continue, with projections indicating over 50,000 Indian visitors by 2025-end. This increase is due to continued focus on the incentive travel market, which is part of the MICE sector. This market is particularly vital for us, as it helps spread awareness through word of mouth, allowing employees from large firms to share their experiences of Taiwan’s beauty with their friends and families,” he said.
Incentives for business promo
Taiwan’s Tourism will continue to focus on incentives coupled with the luxury travel segment from India through various strategic campaigns, while continuing to work closely with the travel trade, ensuring the country remains a top travel choice. Subsidies are provided for travellers staying in Taiwan for at least 4 days and 3 nights. For a group of 30 to 300 people, agents are provided a subsidy of Rs. 1,033 per person globally, for group of 301 to 1,000, Rs. 1,549 per person given, while Rs. 2,066 per person incentive is provided for a group of 1,001 people or more.
Additionally for Indians, a group of 200 people or more will be given a subsidy between `212,695 and Rs. 319,042 per group for visiting local historical or cultural sites recommended by the local government.
He also highlighted that TTA’s focus to build Incentives business from India in 2024 has resulted in significant growth in the segment. Collaboration with airlines such as Thai Airways and Scoot Airlines has allowed for trade shows and itinerary sharing. Taiwan also partners with local Indian travel operators to create travel packages that cater to Indian travellers, making Taiwan more accessible and attractive.
Streamlined visa process
One of the highlights for Indian travellers is Taiwan’s simplified visa process. Indian nationals holding valid or expired visa from countries like the US, United Kingdom, and Australia within the past 10 years can apply for a free e-visa. This streamlined process ensures a hassle-free experience for tourists who wish to explore Taiwan without long visa approval waits, Shih explained.
MICE & weddings
Talking about MICE business, he said, “Taiwan has also seen an increased interest from Indian tourists for MICE and wedding events. However, the tourism board acknowledges the need to educate local Destination Management Companies (DMCs) to better cater to the unique requirements of Indian weddings, which can last several days and involve large, late-night ceremonies.”
Engaging Indian travel trade
TTA aims to build stronger partnerships with OTAs and airlines, creating tailor-made travel packages. “We plan to reach out to East India market as part of our market development strategies, further expanding market outreach beyond metros to tier II cities across India. Indian travellers are particularly drawn to Taiwan’s stunning landscapes like Sun Moon Lake,” he said.
