Liwa International Festival 2027 Returns to Al Dhafra Region with New Experiences, Global Entertainment and More to Discover

• Nitro Circus, a global action sports entertainment brand, makes its festival debut
• More than half of Liwa Village rides and attractions are new or reimagined
• A first-ever Heritage Village showcases Emirati culture

ABU DHABI, UAE, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Liwa International Festival 2027 (Liwa 2027), Al Dhafra Region’s flagship winter celebration, will return from 11 December 2026 to 2 January 2027 amid the dunes of Liwa desert. The 2027 edition brings a reimagined Liwa Village, a new international entertainment show, motorsport championships, heritage experiences and family activities that have made it a longstanding highlight of the United Arab Emirate’s winter calendar.

Liwa International Festival 2027, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, is organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in collaboration with Liwa Sports Club, Al Dhafra Municipality, Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Media Network, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, and Al Dhafra Hospitals – Seha.

Set against the backdrop of Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune at more than 300 metres in height, the festival has grown since its founding in 2001 into an award-winning event that brings together Emirati heritage, sport, entertainment and family-friendly fun. Last year, the festival welcomed more than 700,000 visitors across 23 days and was named ‘Best Festival of the Year’ at the Middle East Events Awards 2026.

New attractions and experiences at Liwa Village

At the heart of the festival lies Liwa Village, a lively hub of entertainment, dining, and family fun, with more than half of its rides and attractions featuring new or reimagined concepts this year.

New experiences include the Circus Swinger, Tagada and Space Tower, alongside new challenges including Play Strike, Ninja Challenge, Pixel Run and Desert Heist, Drift Trike, Target Shooting and Climb Quest.

Visitors can also take on the new Bungee Jumping, adding another adrenaline-fuelled experience to the festival. Returning favourites include the Ferris Wheel, Bumper Cars, Slingshot, Booster, Classic Cars, Go Water Kart, Mini Tank Paint Ball, House of Horror, Maze Adventure and 4×4 Track.

International entertainment takes centre stage

Nitro Circus will make its festival debut on 19 and 20 December, with three fast-paced shows, featuring more than 15 athletes performing stunts across freestyle motocross (FMX), bicycle motocross (BMX), choreographed performances and pyrotechnics. Tickets are now available for purchase on Platinumlist.

Motorsport thrills galore

Organised by Liwa Sports Club, the festival will feature a packed programme of motorsport and desert sports. Highlights include Freestyle Display (11-12, 21-22 December), Motorbike Drag Race (13 December), Falcon Race (14-16 December), Sand Freestyle Display (18-19, 27-28 December), Liwa UTV Track (20 December), Traditional Pigeon Race (22-23 December), Liwa Burnout Challenge (24 December) and Liwa Drift (25-26 December).

The programme will build towards the Tal Moreeb Car Championship finale, which will take place from 30 December – 2 January, bringing the festival into the New Year.

Visitors can also take part in a series of sporting and fitness activities including the Liwa Sign Climb Challenge (19 December), a cycling race (21 December), the Liwa Festival Community Run (23 December), a padel tournament (24–25 December) and a fitness tour (29 December).

Celebrating Emirati heritage

Alongside its new attractions and sporting experiences, Liwa International Festival 2027 continues to celebrate Emirati heritage and traditions.

Presented by Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the Heritage Village is inspired by a traditional Emirati neighbourhood (Al Fareej). Its programme brings together demonstrations and activities that introduce families and younger generations to aspects of life in the past through learning, observation and hands-on participation.

The House of Poetry and Poets celebrates the place of poetry in Emirati heritage through sessions introducing visitors to Nabati poetry, its role in social life, and its expression of the community’s values, experiences and traditions.

At the Falconry Tent, visitors can discover the Emirati tradition of falconry through live falcon displays and demonstrations explaining how falcons are raised, trained and cared for, as well as the tools used in the practice. Young visitors can also take part in workshops to make model falcon hoods.

The programme also includes a traditional games and heritage experiences area, with interactive activities suitable for different ages. These include traditional games such as Teelah and Karabi, tug of war, camel riding, a palm-climbing simulation, and workshops in making palm-leaf products (khoos) and weaving.

The Heritage Village also introduces visitors to Emirati social etiquette through the Emirati Majlis, with practical explanations of majlis etiquette, including entering, greeting, seating, welcoming guests and honouring them. This highlights the majlis’s role in social life and in passing values and customs between generations.

The experience is complemented by a live workshop on preparing and serving Emirati Gahwa, introducing visitors to the tools used and the etiquette involved, while highlighting the traditions and values of Emirati hospitality.

The festival experience will also extend beyond the main festival site, with activations at several forts and heritage attractions across Al Dhafra Region, connecting visitors with the area’s history, culture and landscapes.

These include the Liwa Sign landmark, retail and dining at Dhafeer Fort, Al Meel Fort and Al Yabana Fort, a heritage experience at Khanour Fort featuring traditional Emirati crafts, and a cultural experience at Mezairaa Fort inspired by the stories and heritage of Liwa.

Plan your visit

Ready to experience Liwa International Festival 2027? Plan your visit, explore the full festival programme and find more on liwainternationalfestival.ae.

The festival’s first official app will also be launched, allowing visitors to explore the event calendar, stay up to date with the latest announcements, select and book camping spots and RV parking spaces, and explore commercial participation opportunities at the festival.

Book your tickets:

For Liwa Village tickets, visit liwavillage.ae

For Nitro Circus tickets, visit platinumlist.ae

Follow @liwafest for the latest festival updates.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. 

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae.

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Canara HSBC Life Insurance Introduces ‘Global Wealth Plan’ on Policybazaar, Offers Access to Insurance Linked Global Investing Opportunities

A USD-denominated unit-linked life insurance plan, offered through GIFT City, provides access to global equity, precious metals like Gold/Silver and debt funds across three plan options tailored to different financial goals

NEW DELHI, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited (“Canara HSBC Life Insurance”) has announced the launch of Global Wealth Plan (UIN: 2026L002V01), an individual, unit-linked, non-participating life insurance-cum-savings plan available through GIFT City. The plan provides customers with access to global investment opportunities through USD-denominated insurance-linked investments, combining long-term wealth creation with life protection. The product is being currently distributed through Policybazaar, extending access to NRI customers on its platform who are seeking USD-denominated investment and protection solutions through GIFT City.

As an International Financial Services Centre, GIFT City enables NRIs to access internationally diversified investment opportunities through a familiar and trusted framework. The ability to invest and receive benefits in US Dollars makes the solution particularly relevant for customers with global lifestyles, helping them grow wealth, protect their families and plan for future goals in the same currency in which many of their expenses and obligations may arise.

Commenting on the launch, Rishi Mathur, Chief Distribution Officer, Alternate Channels and Chief Marketing Officer, Canara HSBC Life Insurance, said, “Customer needs of Non-Resident Indians are evolving rapidly, with a growing preference for solutions that combine long-term wealth creation with financial protection. Through our partnership with Policybazaar, we are expanding access to global investment opportunities via GIFT City. Global Wealth Plan brings together USD-denominated investing, globally diversified fund options and life insurance protection within a single solution. With three distinct plan variants, customers can align their investments to their unique goals, whether building wealth, securing a child’s future or creating a lasting legacy, while benefiting from the assurance of life cover.”

Vivek Jain, Chief Business Officer Life insurance, Policybazaar, said, “NRI customers are increasingly seeking opportunities to diversify their portfolios and participate in global growth themes. Global Wealth Plan has been designed to meet this evolving need by combining access to international investment opportunities through GIFT City with the long-term discipline and protection of life insurance. We are pleased to partner with Canara HSBC Life Insurance to bring this differentiated offering to customers looking to build wealth through a globally diversified investment solution.”

Key Product Highlights

• Global investment access: Customers can invest in US Dollars through GIFT City across a range of global equities, precious metals like Gold/Silver and debt funds.
• The offering has no allocation charges or administration charges, allowing more of the customer’s premium to remain invested.
• Three purpose-led options: Wealth for long-term wealth creation, Wealth Plus with Premium Funding Benefit to help secure family financial goals, and Wealth Forever with whole life cover to support legacy creation and wealth transfer. All three options come with life benefits.
• Goal Protection Benefit: Under Wealth Plus, in the event of the Life Assured’s death, the Sum Assured is paid immediately, and all future due premiums are funded by the Company, allowing the policy to continue until maturity.
• Fund Boosters: The Plan also offers benefits like Loyalty Additions & Maturity Boosters basis the option selected by the customer, which helps to boost the overall fund value.

With Global Wealth Plan, Canara HSBC Life Insurance brings together global investment access, wealth creation and life protection in a solution designed around different stages of a customer’s financial journey. From creating wealth and securing a child’s future to preserving wealth for generations, the plan seeks to provide customers with greater flexibility in how they build and protect their financial future.

About Canara HSBC Life Insurance

Incorporated in 2007, Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited is a public listed company co-promoted by Canara Bank (36.5%) and HSBC Insurance (Asia-Pacific) Holdings Limited (25.5%), with the remaining shareholding held by public shareholders, including Punjab National Bank (13%). As a bancassurance-led insurance company with its corporate office at Gurugram, Haryana and 107 branch offices as of September 30, 2026, pan India, Canara HSBC Life brings together the trust and market knowledge of public and private banks.

For more than 18 years now, Canara HSBC Life Insurance has sold insurance products to customers through multiple channels and a well-diversified network of Canara Bank, HSBC Bank and its other bancassurance partners located in multiple Tier 1, 2 and 3 cities across the country. Canara HSBC Life Insurance has a vast portfolio of life insurance solutions and offers various products across individual and group spaces comprising of life, term plans, retirement solutions, credit life and employee benefit segments through partner banks and digital channels.

With an aim to provide simpler insurance and faster claim process, Canara HSBC Life Insurance intends to keep the promises of their customers alive with their ‘Promises Ka Partner’ philosophy.

About Policybazaar

As one of India’s largest digital insurance platforms, Policybazaar is committed to making insurance accessible, transparent, and personalised for every Indian and global customer. Since 2008, Policybazaar has issued 71.6 Mn (till June 2026), and helped protect families against death, disease, and disability. Policybazaar works with 55 insurance partners offering products across health, life, motor, and corporate insurance. The company supports customers with 24/7 digital assistance and on-ground insurance advisors, ensuring a seamless experience across all touchpoints.

Policybazaar Insurance Brokers Private Limited is registered as a Composite Broker | Registered Office – Plot No.119, Sector – 44, Gurgaon, Haryana – 122001 | CIN: U74999HR2014PTC053454 |Registration No. 742, Registration Code No. IRDA/ DB 797/ 19, Valid till 09/06/2027, License category- Composite Broker I Gift city branch address- Shilp Incubation Centre, Office No. SI-M-B014, Unit B, 1st Floor, Plot 11 T3 &11 T5, Block 11, Gift SEZ city, Gandhinagar, Gujarat-382355| IIIO License No. IFSCA/IIIO/026/2025-26, Valid till 09th June 2027.

For further press queries email us on prateek.sharma@canarahsbclife.in

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ABVP’s Campus Poll Gains Reflect Youth Support for Modi’s Development Vision: Odisha CM

Cuttack, Oct 19: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has described the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad’s (ABVP) electoral gains in student union polls across the state as a reflection of young voters’ support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development agenda.

Addressing newly elected student union representatives at the Young Leaders’ Conclave-2026, held at the Cuttack Indoor Stadium on Sunday, Majhi highlighted the restoration of campus democracy after a gap of nearly a decade. He said the decision to bring back student elections demonstrated his government’s confidence in the younger generation.

The Chief Minister also criticised the previous government for discontinuing student union elections in 2017, alleging that the decision had weakened democratic participation on college campuses.

In a post on social media platform X, Majhi said his government had resisted calls to postpone the elections amid concerns about the mood of Gen Z voters. He described the peaceful conduct of the polls and the electoral outcome as a vindication of his government’s decision to restore the democratic process.

Referring to ABVP’s performance in Odisha and its success at Delhi University, Majhi asserted that the results reflected young people’s faith in Modi’s vision of development. His remarks came amid renewed political attention on student representation and campus-level electoral participation.

CM calls for responsible student leadership

Beyond electoral success, Majhi urged the newly elected representatives to focus on their responsibilities towards students and educational institutions.

He emphasised that winning an election should mark the beginning of public service rather than become a source of arrogance. Student leaders, he said, must work to address academic concerns, improve hostel facilities and resolve issues affecting their fellow students.

The Chief Minister also called for concerted efforts to make campuses drug-free and encouraged student representatives to counter misinformation through constructive engagement and responsible leadership.

He stressed that young people have an important role to play in nation-building and in realising the vision of a prosperous and developed Odisha.

Campus democracy back in focus

The revival of student union elections has brought campus politics back into focus across the state. Majhi’s address underscored his government’s emphasis on youth participation, democratic engagement and leadership development.

By urging elected representatives to prioritise student welfare and institutional improvement, the Chief Minister said the mandate should translate into meaningful action on campuses.

The event concluded with a broader appeal to the newly elected student leaders to use their positions to serve the student community and contribute to Odisha’s development.

Magnitude 3.0 Earthquake Hits Manipur’s Kamjong District

Imphal, Oct 18: An earthquake of magnitude 3.0 struck Manipur’s Kamjong district on Sunday evening, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).

 Representational Image 

The tremor was recorded at 6:13:08 PM IST, with its epicentre located at latitude 24.909° North and longitude 94.384° East. The earthquake originated at a depth of 72 kilometres, according to data shared by the NCS.

The national seismic monitoring agency reported the earthquake in an update on its official social media account. Further details regarding its impact, including whether the tremor was felt by residents or caused any damage, were not immediately available.

The relatively deep origin of the earthquake places it below the Earth’s surface at a depth of 72 kilometres. However, the extent to which a tremor is felt depends on several factors, including its magnitude, depth and distance from populated areas.

Another magnitude 3.0 tremor recorded in Madhya Pradesh

Earlier on Sunday, a separate earthquake of magnitude 3.0 was recorded in Madhya Pradesh’s Khargone district, according to the NCS.

The tremor occurred at 12:15:23 PM IST at a depth of five kilometres. Its epicentre was located at latitude 21.483° North and longitude 75.953° East.

The two earthquakes were recorded several hours apart in different parts of the country. No further information on damage or casualties was available in the reports cited.

The NCS continues to monitor seismic activity across India and provides updates on earthquake magnitude, epicentre and depth through its official reporting channels.

Puri Srimandir to Celebrate Vijaya Dashami with Lord Jagannath’s Grand Rajadhiraja Besha

Puri, Oct 19: The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is set to celebrate Vijaya Dashami, popularly known as Dussehra, on Wednesday with a series of traditional rituals, culminating in the magnificent Rajadhiraja Besha, also known as Suna Besha, of the deities.

 Representational Image 

The auspicious occasion holds special religious significance at the 12th-century shrine, where age-old customs associated with Dussehra will be observed with devotion and grandeur. The ceremonial observances are expected to draw devotees eager to witness the sacred rituals and seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath and the Holy Trinity.

As part of the celebrations, the deities seated on the Ratna Singhasana will proceed to Mahakhala at Ballav Math. Goddess Durga and Lord Madhab will also be taken on a chariot as part of the temple’s traditional Dussehra rituals.

Following the ceremonies, Lord Madanmohan, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna will be adorned in their distinctive Veerabesha, or warrior attire. They will proceed to Dussehra Pada before returning to the Srimandir, completing another significant sequence of the festival’s observances.

The highlight of the occasion will be the Rajadhiraja Besha, popularly known as Suna Besha, in which the deities are adorned with elaborate golden ornaments. The ceremonial attire symbolises their divine majesty and royal splendour, making it one of the most anticipated features of the festival.

Kartik rituals to begin at Srimandir

Meanwhile, the sacred month of Kartik will commence at the temple on Thursday, October 22, coinciding with the Ekadashi tithi. The deities will be adorned in Radha Damodar Besha, and special Balabhoga will be offered as part of the observances.

Kartik is considered one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu calendar, particularly for worship, fasting and other religious practices. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Damodara during this period, while devotion to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha assumes special significance.

The traditional Kartik observances at Srimandir attract devotees from Odisha and beyond, who visit Puri to participate in the month-long spiritual practices and seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath.

With Vijaya Dashami followed by the commencement of Kartik, the coming days will mark an important period of religious observance at the revered Puri shrine, reflecting the temple’s enduring spiritual traditions and cultural heritage.

Rohit Sharma Joins Freyr Energy as its First Brand Ambassador; Launches ‘Solar Ho, Toh Freyr Ho!’ Campaign

• India’s World Cup-winning captain fronts a nationwide campaign urging families to choose a rooftop solar partner they can count on for the next 30 years

• Freyr’s “Rishta Pakka” ad film features brand ambassador Rohit Sharma

National, Oct. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Freyr Energy, India’s second-largest residential rooftop solar company under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, announced Rohit Sharma, India’s World Cup-winning captain, as its first-ever brand ambassador. The association launches with ‘Solar Ho, Toh Freyr Ho!’, a nationwide campaign built on a simple idea: rooftop solar is a 30-year decision, and it deserves a company that delivers year after year. The campaign also features an ad film, “Rishta Pakka,” with Rohit Sharma as the protagonist, talking about solar, subsidies, and its benefits through a humour-led narrative.

The partnership brings together two records of consistency and benchmark-setting. Rohit Sharma has spent nearly two decades delivering at the highest level of international cricket, setting standards others now measure themselves against. Freyr Energy has done the same on India’s rooftops for more than a decade, designing, financing, installing and servicing 24,000+ solar systems across 40+ cities, and introducing industry firsts such as its Freyr Energy App, self-cleaning solar systems and solar experience centres. The launch comes at a turning point for the category, with the PM Surya Ghar Yojana bringing millions of Indian families to rooftop solar for the first time. Eligible households can access government subsidy support of up to ₹78,000, while financing options at low and competitive interest rates can further reduce the upfront financial burden of making the switch. A solar system is meant to perform for decades, long after installation day, so the real risk for a family is not whether to go solar, but whom to trust with it. ‘Solar Ho, Toh Freyr Ho!’ is built to answer that question.

Saurabh Marda, Co-founder & Managing Director, Freyr Energy, said, “Our aim has always been to raise the bar for what Indian homeowners can expect from rooftop solar, not just on installation day but across the 30-year life of their system. Rohit has spent his career doing exactly that in cricket, which made him the natural choice as our first brand ambassador.”

Radhika Choudary, Co-founder & Director, Freyr Energy, said, “When a family puts solar on its roof, they are trusting a company for the next 30 years. That company has to show up every time and stand behind the family’s decision long after the system is switched on. ‘Solar Ho, Toh Freyr Ho!’ says that in five words, and no one says it better than Rohit.”

Speaking about the association, Rohit Sharma, exclusively managed by RISE Worldwide, said, “Protecting the environment has been close to my heart for years. Rooftop solar gives families a chance to do their bit for the planet, and it’s important to have a partner you can trust for the journey. That’s what drew me to Freyr Energy. I’m happy to be part of their campaign, encouraging more families to embrace solar and choose a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

Rajan Mahalingam, Marketing Head, Freyr Energy, said, “‘Solar Ho, Toh Freyr Ho!’ is built to make Freyr the first name families think of when they consider rooftop solar. Rohit’s reputation for consistency and trust mirrors what we promise every customer, and that gives the campaign an authenticity audiences will connect with. We look forward to taking this message to millions of homes across India.”

The ad film “Rishta Pakka” is live across Freyr Energy’s YouTube channel on: https://youtu.be/SW_0c1FSaQU   

About Freyr Energy

Founded in 2014 by Saurabh Marda and Radhika Choudary, Freyr Energy is India’s second-largest residential rooftop solar company under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, with 24,000+ installations for homes and businesses across 40+ cities. The company brings system design, installation, financing assistance and technology-enabled customer support under one roof to make the switch to rooftop solar simple and dependable.

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Canton Fair Buyers Alliance Launched as the 140th Edition Opens

GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On October 15, the Canton Fair Buyers Alliance was officially launched at the Canton Fair Complex, marking a significant milestone as the fair celebrates the 70th anniversary of its founding.

More than 140 overseas buyers attended the launch ceremony, highlighting the fair’s enduring role as a bridge connecting global commerce with China’s export sector.

Speaking at the ceremony, Luís Vilariça, CEO of Joinco, Import & Export, Ltd., discussed his company’s long-standing relationship with the Canton Fair. Drawing on years of participation, he reflected on the growth opportunities created through cooperation with Chinese suppliers and highlighted the fair’s role in supporting international business development and global trade exchanges.

The ceremony also featured a joint declaration by alliance members. Representatives from five member companies read the statement in their respective native languages, underscoring the international character of the new organization. Additional members sent video congratulatory messages, joining the celebration and witnessing the official launch of the alliance.

The Canton Fair Buyers Alliance represents one of the fair’s key service innovations. Designed primarily for Fortune Global 500 companies, buyers from the world’s top 250 retailers and leading sourcing enterprises across a diverse range of markets, the alliance aims to offer members a platform for information sharing and resource coordination. The first cohort of alliance members includes 58 companies from 32 countries and regions across 5 continents. Through the alliance, members will gain access to a range of priority benefits spanning four major areas: services, events, resources and information.

 For more convenient attendance, please click here for pre-registration:

https://buyer.cantonfair.org.cn/register/buyer/email?source_type=16

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Crisis • Resilience • Evolution — Building a Tourism Economy for a Shared Future: The 12th Global Tourism Economy Forum • Macao 2026 Grandly Commences

MACAO, Oct. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 12^th Global Tourism Economy Forum • Macao 2026 (“GTEF”) grandly commenced today at the MGM Theater at MGM COTAI. Returning to Macao, its founding host city, under the theme “Crisis Resilience Evolution — Building a Tourism Economy for a Shared Future”, the event serves as a premier platform connecting China with the global cultural and tourism sectors. The Forum gathers government and business leaders, experts, scholars, and representatives from international organizations around the world to address the evolving global environment and key challenges facing the sector. Participants will explore strategies to overcome growth plateaus, enhance industry resilience, and chart a forward-looking path toward high-quality development and sustainable transformation for global cultural tourism.

The Forum is organised by the Secretariat for Economy and Finance of the Government of Macao Special Administrative Region, in collaboration with UN Tourism. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) serves as collaboration organisation, while the Macao Government Tourism Office and the China Chamber of Tourism serve as co-organisers, with the Global Tourism Economy Research Centre acting as coordinator.

The event also receives strong support from key official and international entities, including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Macao Special Administrative Region, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the European Travel Commission (ETC), the World Tourism Alliance (WTA), the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation (SIEF), the China Women’s Chamber of Commerce (CWCC), the China Tourism Association (CTA), the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute, and the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Macao (ACEM). Together, these organizations unite global collaborative strength to champion the sustainable development of global cultural tourism.

In his welcome remarks, HO Hau Wah, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and Forum Chairman of Global Tourism Economy Forum, stated: “This year marks a major milestone in the evolution of the Forum. Last December, the 11th Forum ventured beyond Macao for the first time, hosting a highly successful event in Harbin, Heilongjiang, and achieving a historic breakthrough as the Forum expanded nationwide. Building on this momentum, this year’s Forum centers on the timely theme ‘Crisis, Resilience, Elevation: Reshaping a Sustainable Global Future through Tourism Economy’. As an international platform deeply rooted in Macao, the Forum actively aligns with the Special Administrative Region’s overarching development, continually injecting new dynamic momentum into Macao’s economic diversification.”

SAM Hou Fai, Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, delivered welcome remarks, stating: “Since its inception in 2012, the Global Tourism Economy Forum has become an important platform for high-level dialogue and multilateral cooperation in global tourism. Macao will actively leverage its unique strengths of ‘backing by the Motherland and connecting to the world’, while advancing the ‘Northward, Southward, Westward and Eastward’ strategies. Furthermore, the SAR will spare no effort in promoting the development of the World Centre of Tourism and Leisure, alongside the exchange and cooperation base with Chinese culture as the mainstream and co-existence of diverse cultures. We look forward to working with all partners through this year’s Forum to extend the momentum of the tourism economy into wider domains, while fostering a collaborative landscape for mutual benefit and driving sustainable innovation across the global industry.”

Shaikha AL NUWAIS, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, delivered opening remarks, stating: “So far this year, 690 million people have travelled internationally – 3 million more than during the same period last year. With the geopolitical situation and with everything happening in the Middle East, this number is very promising, and this tells us that the tourism sector has tremendous potential. But success is not only about how many people travel. It’s about what their journeys create for destinations and for communities. As tourism evolves and travellers’ expectations rise, we must equip our workforce with the skills, professionalism, and service mindset to deliver the quality today’s travellers’ demand. Macao has an important story to tell. Macao is moving from volume to value, connecting culture, gastronomy, health and innovation, as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.”

LONG Yongtu, Former Vice Minister of Ministry of Foreign Trade & Economic Cooperation of China, and Former Secretary-General of Boao Forum for Asia, delivered a keynote speech centered on “China’s Model of Inclusive Growth”, stating: “The deep integration of tourism with other sectors expands the foundation of tourism development while strengthening industry resilience. Inclusive tourism directly benefits communities, earning the sector broad and societal support. At the same time, advancing environmentally friendly tourism enhances the destination’s appeal and elevates a nation’s global reputation. Through collective strength, tourism can become an open, inclusive, and sustainable force that meaningfully contributes to global economic growth, social stability, and human well-being.”

Gloria GUEVARA, President & Chief Executive Officer of World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), and Honorary Chairman of GTEF, delivered opening remarks, stating: “We do a lot of research, showing that China is driving global tourism growth. One key policy is the visa exempt, which make it easier for more travelers to come. Getting to China is easier through improved connectivity, with flights and transportation connecting China to the world. Although we have a lot of situations around the world, and people are worried, I believe that through public and private collaboration and working together, we can unlock future growth and build a better future.”

LUO Laijun, Vice Chairman of All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, delivered congratulatory remarks, stating: “Recent years have seen global tourism weather severe headwinds from public health emergencies and extreme weather to economic volatility and shifting consumer trends, all of which have accelerated the industry’s structural transformation. By focusing on emerging consumer trends and driving breakthroughs in cultural integration, green transition, and smart travel, the industry can turn crises into catalysts for evolution.”

Representing the Partner Country, Miguel SANZ CASTEDO, Representative of Minister for Industry and Tourism of Spain, Director General of Turespaña, and President of the European Travel Commission, delivered partner country remarks, stating: “Spain and China are among the world’s leading tourism powers. We face common challenges: how to create greater value through tourism? How to harness technology while preserving the human dimension of travel? And how to ensure that tourism contributes to prosperity and wellbeing? These challenges require dialogue and cooperation, which is why this Global Tourism Economy Forum is so valuable. Spain stands ready to work with our partners, in Macao, in the rest of China and beyond, to build a tourism sector that is more sustainable, more innovative, more connected and more human.”

Representing the Featured Chinese Province, Bateer, Executive Vice Governor of the Hainan Provincial People’s Government, delivered featured province remarks, stating: “As the World Centre of Tourism and Leisure, Macao stands as a glowing showcase of centuries-old Sino-Western cultural fusion, offering rich lessons from which Hainan can learn. As China’s largest special economic zone and sole free trade port, Hainan shares the South China Sea with Macao, bound by geographic proximity, cultural affinity, and deep bonds of kinship that create vast potential for cultural tourism collaboration. As the Forum opens, global partners are warmly invited to Hainan for leisure and investment, embrace the new opportunities in the Hainan Free Trade Port, and jointly shape a more open, inclusive, and dynamic global tourism economy.”

Re-emerging from its founding city of Macao, the 12^th Global Tourism Economy Forum not only builds a practical bridge for global tourism collaboration, but also initiates a vital path toward overcoming industry uncertainty and reshaping a sustainable future. At a pivotal moment marked by the rebuilding of sector resilience and the pursuit of high-quality growth, the Forum will continue to bring global stakeholders together to enhance industry governance. By fostering collaboration through openness and driving breakthroughs through innovation, the event aims to chart a new blueprint for global tourism defined by strength, adaptability, and long-term value.

About Global Tourism Economy Forum 

Founded in 2012, the Global Tourism Economy Forum is a premier international platform dedicated to promoting the sustainable development of the global tourism economy. Serving as an essential bridge for exchange and cooperation between China and the international community, the Forum convenes leaders from governments, enterprises, academia, and international organizations worldwide to address opportunities and challenges in global tourism, establishing itself as one of the most influential annual events in the global tourism economy sector.

Having successfully hosted eleven editions, the Forum has attracted over 15,500 delegates from 88 countries and regions and invited more than 780 world-renowned speakers. It has established a high-level dialogue and practical cooperation network that spans the globe and connects government, industry, academia, and research.

For more details about the Forum, please visit https://gte-forum.com/en/ and follow official social media channels for the latest updates. 

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GAC Showcases Multiple Models at Canton Fair: Systemic Global Expansion as a Response to High‑Level Opening‑Up

GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On 15 October, the 140th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) kicked off in Guangzhou. Dubbed “China’s No.1 Exhibition” with a 70‑year history, it serves as a vital window for global merchants to understand China, and one of GAC’s stages to connect with the world. For international buyers, GAC serves not only as a sourcing platform but as a trusted channel for experiencing Chinese automotive innovation and building long-term local partnerships. Having made its debut in 2012, GAC has participated in the fair 30 times to date. Together with the Canton Fair, it has witnessed the transformation of Made‑in‑China products into Chinese global brands.

This transformation is reflected in GAC’s global expansion journey through a string of continuously refreshed sales figures. Overseas sales stood at 90,000 units in 2024, hit 130,000 units in 2025, and exceeded 197,000 units in January‑September 2026, representing a year‑on‑year surge of 138.9%. GAC is sprinting full steam ahead toward its annual target of 300,000 overseas units. GAC has accomplished a shift from “product export” to “system‑level global expansion”.

At the GAC booth, XT80, AION i60 and AISTALAND GX7 showcased intelligent driving, three-electric systems and premium cabins. The energy-ecology zone featured DC ultra-fast charging piles, 7 kW smart home chargers, multi-in-one electric drive units and PV-Storage-Charging-Swapping Technology, addressing range anxiety. Opening day drew buyers from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America and Africa. At the Music & Cuisine Festival, GAC built three immersive spaces blending smart mobility, Cantonese cuisine, camping and sports. The XT80, AION N60, GAC S7 and AISTALAND GT7 served as lifestyle carriers, letting guests enjoy morning tea, global cuisines and intangible cultural heritage.

GAC will advance its ONE GAC 2.0 strategy, deepening localized operations and expanding its systematic global layout. As a tribute to the Canton Fair’s 70th anniversary and a new business card for China’s auto industry, GAC will help drive Chinese intelligent manufacturing onto the global stage.

For further information about GAC, please visit https://www.gacgroup.com/en or follow us on social media.

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