China Travel Online: Azerbaijan should offer more suitable products, services

Azerbaijan should provide more suitable products and services for tourists coming from China, Marcus Lee, CEO of China Travel Online, told Report.

According to Lee, there is a need to develop several spheres in Azerbaijan's tourism sector: "The China Ready program implemented in many countries is a good example in this field. The program allows host countries and partners to be better prepared for the Chinese market in terms of language, guidance, and services."

The CEO added that it is significant to understand the desires of Chinese tourists and give them options: "Sometimes you offer them a product that you think is good, but it may not match their interests. Therefore, it is necessary to explain the concept and present the right product."

Highlighting the language barrier issue, he noted that the majority of Chinese tourists speak poor English: "The situation is relatively better among young people, but the older generation hardly speaks English at all. Therefore, learning the Azerbaijani language will be even more difficult for them."

The official also touched upon the issue of business cooperation between Azerbaijan and China. According to Lee, many companies from China are interested in operating in Azerbaijan: "Currently, the most important direction is renewable energy. Large companies like Huawei have operations in Azerbaijan. I think small and medium enterprises could also be invited here."

The CEO underscored that there is no special state program in this regard, and companies come to the country voluntarily.