…
REPORT – Shanghai: The third annual Corporate Travel & Technology World China (CT&TW China), an event organized by the National Business Travel Association (NBTA) and TTG Asia Media, this week brought together more than 160 corporate travel professionals from China, the United States and other Asia Pacific nations to examine the dynamics of China’s economy and corporate travel management trends and challenges throughout the Asia Pacific region.
CT&TW China attendees participated in eight education sessions focusing on topics such as sourcing travel suppliers, airline commission cuts, tapping travel technology, the evolution of payment methods, and developing Strategic Meetings Management Programs. Time was also allotted for delegates to demonstrate new technologies and network with travel suppliers at the Technology & Exhibitor Exchange.
Michael Lyons, CCTE, NBTA Vice President, said, “In preparing for the third annual CT&TW China, NBTA and TTG Asia Media were well aware of how the slowing global economy has impacted corporate travel programs across the Asia Pacific region. We wanted to be sure to offer our business travel colleagues insights on the latest in industry trends and solutions to current challenges. The education and networking opportunities attendees received here this week will help them to continue proving their value and save their firms money in today’s uncertain landscape.”
Delegates heard from Chinese commentator, columnist and author Dr. George Zhibin Gu about China’s increasingly global reach and economic and political influences. The state of the Asia Pacific airline industry was also discussed with insights from Liz Thomson of the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. She commented on carriers’ efforts to reinvent themselves as consumers seek cheaper fares and transportation alternatives.
Lyons added, “As the fourth largest economy in the world, understanding business in China is essential to successful travel management in the Asia Pacific region. NBTA and TTG Asia Media plan to continue and enhance efforts to offer corporate travel professionals throughout the region the industry education and face-to-face opportunities they need to enhance their careers provide measurable financial benefits to their organizations.”
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
