TEHRAN – Iran has set its sights on attracting millions of Chinese nationals as part of its strategy to boost the tourism industry.

With diplomatic relations between Tehran and Beijing strengthening in recent years, officials from both nations have been engaging in discussions to facilitate easier travel for Chinese citizens to Iran.

The move is part of Iran’s broader efforts to diversify its tourism market and reduce its dependency on traditional sources of income.

Apart from previous privileges such as a granting visa-free regime to Chinese visitors, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has recently arranged for 20 popular Chinese influencers to visit the country and see its landmark natural, historical, and cultural attractions, IRNA reported.

Moslem Shojai, head of the Foreign Tourism Marketing and Development Office at the ministry, said on Saturday that the project has been designed to introduce Iran's attractions to 20 influential social media personalities from China.

The objective is to target approximately 60 million Chinese individuals through these influencers and entice them to consider traveling to Iran, he said.

Shojai outlined the project's focus on four main themes; natural and climatic diversity, historical and cultural heritage, the Silk Road, and culinary delights across 12 provinces of Iran.

The official said efforts were made to create attractive itineraries for the Chinese influencers, each of whom has about three million followers on popular social media platforms.

Chinese tourists, known for their avid interest in exploring new destinations and experiencing diverse cultures, could significantly contribute to Iran's tourism revenue.

Last October, Deputy Tourism Minister Ali-Asghar Shalbafian announced that Chinese arrivals in the country had been soaring at a faster pace even when compared to pre-pandemic levels.

“The demand for visiting Iran has been soaring among Chinese nationals,” Shalbafian said.

He made the remarks in a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Lu Ying Chuang held in Tehran’s Sa’dabad historical complex.

Shalbafian said some 50,000 travelers from China visited the Islamic Republic during the first seven months of the year (started on March 21).

Iran, renowned for its ancient history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality, sees immense potential in tapping into the vast Chinese tourist market.

AM