GBTA Kicks Off 2016 Gift of Knowledge Programs in Shanghai and Beijing

First announced in 2014, The Gift of Knowledge Initiative was created to implement an innovative and comprehensive program to further develop the travel management profession in China. In 2015, more than 200 individuals were able to participate in the inaugural delivery of workshops in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen bringing travel professionals together to discuss timely topics as well as opportunities and challenges in the industry.

Last week, GBTA released its latest forecast showing China overtook the United States as the world’s largest business travel market. China edged past the United States in total business travel spending at the end of 2015 by a billion U.S. dollars. According to the forecast, China will soar ahead in 2016 with business travel spend forecast to grow 10.1 percent to $320.7 billion USD, compared to 1.9 percent growth in the United States and $295.7 billion USD in total business travel spend. This marks a monumental shift in the industry and demonstrates how important the need is for holistic education and training for travel management professionals in this region of unprecedented growth and demand.

This morning kicked off the GBTA Foundation’s 2016 Gift of Knowledge programming in Shanghai with a workshop at The Westin Bund Center. Attendees were treated to engaging discussions with industry leaders and networking opportunities with fellow travel professionals. Topics included an introduction to risk management, risk management programs for ground transportation in China, an introduction to the latest in travel management technology and how to determine the right technology for your travel management program.

This Friday will feature a similar workshop in Beijing. We look forward to continue delivering on the promise of providing leading education for Chinese business travel professionals. None of this could be possible without the support of our Gift of Knowledge Partners including: DTG, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, United, Ctrip Corporate Travel, InterContinental Hotels Group, Wyndham Hotel Group, Star Alliance and Marriott. Stay tuned for info on upcoming sessions.