Sustainable Destination Management

Strategies in the OIC Member Countries

Figure 35: Top Sources by Country into GMS Tourism Performance Indicators

Source: Mekong Tourism Website (2019)

The collection of reliable and consistent data are a challenge for the MTCO due to different

reporting systems and timeframes for each country. Steps have been taken to improve this by

having a data harmonization working group. At the current point in time, the past annual

scorecards were based on different reporting systems and cannot be compared with each

other.

Future Development of the Corridor

During the last decade, dramatic changes were witnessed in the GMS. Myanmar, for example,

saw a boom in international tourist arrivals. Air and overland access are now able to connect

some of the most remote locations. More streamlined visa issuance has made exciting multi-

country journeys possible for more people. More luxury hotels throughout the GMS and luxury

vessels on the Mekong River and other waterways are attracting affluent consumers who are

looking for high-end experiences.

The GMS is very close to being the largest and fastest-growing source markets of the 21

century, China and India. The rising wealth and the growth of a middle class with disposable

income in the rest of Asia, especially Southeast Asia, provides tremendous opportunities for

future growth. This is all in addition to the existing long-haul markets of Europe and North

America. While regional travel is more sustainable, in that it is less susceptible to external

shocks, it does require different products, services, and experiences.

Information and communications technology (ICT), including the Internet, social media, and

mobile devices, has transformed how consumers are researching and purchasing products,

including travel & tourism. Travelers now have access to information in real-time and can also

share their experiences “in the moment.” Low-cost local SIM cards and Wi-Fi access are readily

available, and peer-to-peer platforms allow travelers and local micro-entrepreneurs to connect