The morning after the China Ready Index® (Africa Rankings) session drew an impressive crowd at WTM Africa 2026, the momentum continued. On 15 April, the China Ready Workshop by CBISN made its South African debut – a sold-out, two-hour premium training session that marked a significant milestone: South Africa becoming the 55th country in the world to formally launch the China Ready Programme.
For Marcus Lee, CEO of China Travel Online and founder of the programme:
“Being China Ready is no longer optional for destinations that are serious about the Chinese market,” he has said. “This workshop gives industry professionals the practical tools to start that journey.”
A three-year programme built for the long game
The workshop is not a once-off. It will run annually at WTM Africa from 2026 to 2028, with each session building on the last. It is structured across three parts:
Part 1: Essential Knowledge (2026)
Part 2: Marketing and Digital Promotion (2027)
Part 3: Strategies and Branding (2028)
Those who were unable to attend Part 1 in 2026 are welcome to join Part 2: Marketing and Digital Promotion at WTM Africa 2027. The programme is designed to be accessible at any entry point, with each session delivering standalone value for those focused on practical knowledge and implementation.
Who attended – and why it matters
The breadth of attendance reflected importance of “China readiness”. Registered participants included representatives from hotels, destination management companies (DMCs), attractions (including wineries), transportation providers, MICE operators and luxury travel. Senior management from several tourism boards were also present, with attendance reaching director general level.
The early-morning start – the session ran from 08:00 to 10:00 – did nothing to dampen enthusiasm. The workshop was fully booked, underlining the appetite among African tourism professionals for structured, practical guidance on engaging the Chinese market.
CPD credits and certification
The China Ready Workshop carries formal professional recognition. Participants earn six CPD credits for each module attended. Those who complete all three sessions across the 2026–2028 cycle will receive a China Ready certificate – a credential that signals to the market a genuine commitment to Chinese visitor readiness.
Registration for the 2027 session – Part 2: Marketing and Digital Promotion – will open ahead of WTM Africa 2027.
About China Ready® by CBISN
China Ready® is the world’s number one Chinese tourism preparation programme, launched in 56 countries across six continents. Over 4,600 executives have participated in China Ready workshops globally. The programme equips destinations, hotels, DMCs, airlines and tourism boards with the knowledge, tools and strategies to welcome Chinese visitors effectively.
