NTA China Inbound Program FAQ
NTA China Inbound Program Changes
1. The requirements for participation in the NTA China Inbound Program were recently changed. Why was this done? How can I get a copy of the new requirements?
NTA wants to do all it can to ensure a quality experience for Chinese group leisure tourists.
From the NTA China Inbound Task Force and other tour operators, NTA learned that certain practices (such as coerced shopping activities) were not promoting a welcoming visitor experience. NTA prepared a new set of criteria to address issues that have arisen in the China inbound market since the signing of the MOU. Tour operators are asked to attest to this new set of criteria to affirm their standing on NTA's Approved Tour Operator list. The new criteria are available on NTA's Web site and will be sent to all operators currently on the approved list.
In short, in addition to attesting to existing criteria (such has having final pricing and itinerary information in Chinese, a Chinese guide or accompanier, etc), approved tour operators must now also commit to and attest to:
- That no aspect of the itinerary will be misrepresented and that the location and quality of lodging must be accurately portrayed in tour advertising and confirmations.
- They will utilize suppliers and contractors that are sufficiently licensed, maintain up-to-date registration and insurance and are in compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations relevant to their tour function.
- They will review crash data, safety ratings and safety records of motorcoach subcontractors utilized for China inbound group travel. The tour operator shall also commit to utilizing motorcoach subcontractors properly licensed in the state(s) of operation for China inbound group tour travel and which are in compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
- Shopping opportunities for China inbound tour groups shall be conducted without coercion at reputable shopping facilities, with quality products, with the greatest care for visitor safety and well-being.
- The Tour Operator shall commit to participation in educational programming in order to keep abreast of current issues and trends in the Chinese inbound U.S. market.
These changes are made with the input of the U.S. Department of Commerce and the China National Tourism Administration.
2. Why were these changes deemed necessary?
NTA adopted these changes in order to enhance the overall experience for Chinese group leisure travelers.
As group leisure travel to the United States is a new phenomenon, NTA wants to ensure that tour operators create the best possible tourism environment. The new criteria were developed through deliberations of the NTA China Inbound Task Force, NTA members and dialogue between NTA and the Department of Commerce and the China National Tourism Administration. CNTA recognizes that NTA is committed to safety and quality for Chinese group leisure travelers and has been briefed on these new requirements.
3. What will happen if my company does not re-register?
If a current NTA China Inbound Program operator does not re-register and attest to the new criteria by the June 25 deadline, their company will be removed from the Approved Tour Operator list. If your company qualifies for the program but misses this deadline, you can be reinstated at the next transmission.
4. What happens if my company does not uphold these new criteria?
Companies that are found not to be upholding current NTA China Inbound Program criteria will be removed from the approved list. An appeal process exists for reinstatement in one year.
5. I just joined the NTA approved list. Do I have to re-register?
Yes. All approved tour operators must affirm the new criteria.
6. I missed the deadline for re-registration. Can I get my dues payment to NTA refunded?
No. As your membership in the National Tour Association is still in good standing, your dues payment is not refundable per the NTA bylaws.