Taiwan remains optimistic about welcoming 10 million tourists in 2024, with a projected increase to 14 million by 2028, as stated by Transportation Minister Li Meng-yen (李孟諺) on Thursday (June 13).
According to data from the National Immigration Agency (NIA), Taiwan had already received 3.45 million visitors as of Tuesday (June 11). Minister Li expressed confidence in achieving the 10 million target, leveraging campaigns focused on attracting tourists from Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, and North America during the latter half of 2024.
The original goal for this year was to attract 12 million tourists. However, due to various challenges, including a significant earthquake in Hualien County on April 3 and China's ongoing refusal to permit tour groups to visit Taiwan, the target has been revised down to 10 million.
Speaking to legislators, Li emphasized that he has no plans to lower the target again. He highlighted several strategies to boost tourist numbers, including the establishment of new tourism offices in Vancouver and Manila, the continuation of visa-free travel for visitors from Thailand and the Philippines, and efforts to attract more transit passengers.
Looking ahead, Li set ambitious goals for 2028, aiming for 14 million international visitors and 220 million domestic trips. He projected that tourism revenue would reach NT$1 trillion (US$30.92 billion) by that time.
