China Invited to Tawang Tourism Mart Amid India-China Border Dispute

The government is set to host a major international tourism event in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, from October 27 to November 1. Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, the International Tourism Mart will bring together delegates from approximately 20 countries.

Delegates from China have also been invited to the annual event, which is held on a rotational basis across the northeastern states. The 2025 edition was held in Sikkim and saw participation from government representatives and tourism industry stakeholders from more than 19 countries.

Tawang, located in Arunachal Pradesh near the India-China border, is a significant area in the longstanding boundary dispute between the two countries.

Beijing refers to Arunachal Pradesh as “Zangnan” or “South Tibet” and claims the territory as its own. New Delhi rejects China's claim and maintains that Arunachal Pradesh is an “inalienable and integral part of India”.

China Invited Amid Boundary Dispute

Chinese government representatives have traditionally not attended the tourism event, although private tour operators from the country have participated in some editions, given opportunities for business-to-business partnerships.

At the 2018 edition in Agartala, more than 60 tour operator delegates from several countries participated, including representatives from Bangladesh, Australia, Canada, China and France.

According to sources cited in reports, invitations for the Tawang edition have been extended to participating countries and industry delegations. Confirmation of participation is expected closer to the event.

Ministers, Delegates to Visit Key Attractions

For the Tawang edition, the Ministry of Tourism is collaborating with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to organise the event. Union and state ministers are expected to attend.

Delegates will also visit Tawang Monastery, Buddha Park, Panga Teng Tso Lake and Shernup Village.