In a landmark moment for the cultural tourism industry, Su Zhigang, chairman of Chimelong Group based in the Chinese mainland, was officially inducted into the 2025 IAAPA Hall of Fame. The ceremony, part of the IAAPA Legends: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair in Orlando, USA, took place on November 17.
Established 35 years ago, the IAAPA Hall of Fame is regarded as the top honor in global cultural tourism, with past inductees including Walt Disney. Su Zhigang is the first from the Chinese mainland to receive this prestigious award, recognizing his 36 years of innovative leadership and operational excellence.
Under Su’s guidance, Chimelong has developed three world-class cultural tourism resorts in Guangzhou, Hengqin and Qingyuan. These destinations have showcased national cultural tourism brands of the Chinese mainland on the global stage, drawing millions of visitors and driving local economic growth.
Su also joins an elite group of just eight industry leaders worldwide who have earned both an IAAPA Hall of Fame induction and the TEA Buzz Price Thea Award for Lifetime Achievement. Notably, he is the only recipient from Asia to hold both titles.
For young global citizens and business enthusiasts, Su Zhigang’s induction highlights the rising influence of Chinese mainland innovators in the cultural tourism sector. As the world seeks fresh experiences and sustainable travel destinations, this milestone underscores the potential for continued collaboration and innovation across borders.
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China's Su Zhigang inducted into global cultural tourism Hall of Fame
cgtn.com
