Hualien Launches Travel Incentives to Attract Overseas Tour Groups and Boost Tourism

(中央社訊息服務20251110 14:52:43)To boost local tourism, the Hualien County Government launched the Sustainable Travel Hualien Incentive Program in May 2025, offering rewards to tour operators who bring diverse groups of visitors to Hualien. In September, the county expanded the program to include the Domestic Group Travel Incentive Program and the Hualien Direct-Flight Air-and-Hotel Package Incentive. The campaign received a strong response. All available funds have been fully allocated and are now being disbursed.

One highlight of the program, the Overseas Group Travel Incentive for Travel Agencies, encourages in-depth travel experiences for international visitors. It supports the launch of direct flights between Hong Kong and Hualien by offering incentives to agencies that organize groups of 12 or more foreign travelers. To qualify, tour groups must stay at least two nights in Hualien and visit at least one designated sustainable site. Agencies can apply for up to NT$4,000 per person if the group stays for four nights. In September, Hualien launched a second incentive targeting air-and-hotel packages tied to direct flights. This program applies not only to routes from Hong Kong and Taiwan proper, but to any tour operator selling such packages with accommodations in Hualien. A total of 20 Taiwan-based agencies participated, bringing in over 70 tour groups and nearly 2,000 foreign visitors, creating clear economic benefits for the region.

Yu Ming-Hsun, Director-General of the Hualien Tourism Department, said the program helps balance visitor satisfaction with economic impact. It boosts local spending and supports hotels, restaurants, and souvenir vendors. To qualify for incentives, each group must stay at least two nights and visit a certified sustainable venue, such as a green hotel, a “Green Food” restaurant, or a certified environmental education facility. The program encourages longer stays and meaningful action toward sustainable tourism, helping build a positive cycle between tourism and environmental stewardship.

Data shows that visitors from Hong Kong made up about 50% of all international tour guests. Travelers from Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam accounted for around 40%. The program also attracted visitors from Germany, Finland, Australia, and even Easter Island (Rapa Nui, Chile). This shows that Hualien’s unique landscapes and commitment to sustainability are gaining global attention.

Looking ahead, the Hualien County Government will continue to link direct-flight routes with local tourism and hospitality resources. The county plans to adjust incentive programs as needed and introduce more formats to promote sustainable travel. These efforts aim to strengthen Hualien’s image as a resilient, friendly, and sustainable destination that welcomes visitors from around the world.