According to recent data from Alipay, Chinese tourists have emerged as the biggest spenders in Europe during the festive period of Lunar New Year. From February 4 to February 10, there was a noticeable surge in spending by Chinese vacationers across various European countries, showcasing their strong economic impact on the global tourism industry.
Alipay’s comprehensive analysis of spending patterns and mobile payment behavior across 54 markets where the platform is operational unveiled some compelling insights. Europe dominated the list of top 10 countries for average spend during this period, with Denmark leading the pack, experiencing a remarkable 23-fold increase in average spending compared to the previous year. Following closely behind were Spain, the Philippines, Belgium, and Switzerland, all witnessing significant spikes in Chinese tourist expenditure.
Interestingly, the transaction volumes indicated a predominantly Asian presence, with nine out of the top 10 countries hailing from the continent. Canada managed to clinch the 10th spot due to the rising acceptance of Alipay services by local businesses, underscoring the platform’s global expansion and popularity among merchants worldwide.
When it comes to specific spending categories, Chinese visitors in Europe prioritized department stores and luxury boutiques, reflecting their penchant for high-end shopping experiences while abroad. In contrast, travelers to other Asian destinations showed a preference for cosmeceutical stores and convenience outlets, emphasizing diverse spending preferences across regions and cultural contexts.
Overall, in-store transaction values saw a modest two percent increase year-over-year, signaling a growing trend of Chinese tourists allocating more resources to shopping and leisure activities during their overseas trips. These findings are crucial for businesses aiming to capture the attention of the lucrative Chinese consumer market, especially during festive seasons like the Lunar New Year, to optimize their offerings and marketing strategies accordingly.
For more insights on Chinese tourist spending trends and global consumer behavior, check out the following links:
1. How COVID-19 has impacted Chinese tourism
2. Global travel and tourism mega trends
