Klook contributes $7.2 billion to regional GDP
Klook, the leading platform in Asia for travel services and experiences, has significantly contributed approximately US$7.2 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP) and has supported over 219,000 jobs across the Asia Pacific region.
Klook, the leading platform in Asia for travel services and experiences, has significantly contributed approximately US$7.2 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP) and has supported over 219,000 jobs across the Asia Pacific region including Viet Nam.
These figures, revealed by Oxford Economics for the period of 12 months from January 2023 to December 2023, encompass 16 markets in the APAC region, highlighting Klook's crucial role as an economic catalyst in the region's tourism sector.
By bridging partners with previously untapped customers, Klook generates a ripple effect of economic activity within various sectors of the travel industry, spanning from experiences and entertainment to transportation and beyond.
“With over 80 per cent of our partners being small and medium businesses, we are committed to creating real economic opportunities for these communities, which are the backbone of local tourism, to ensure a more resilient and sustainable future for tourism in Asia,” said Ethan Lin, CEO and co-founder of Klook.
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the company is rolling out a series of initiatives aimed at driving positive impacts, supporting sustainable tourism practices, and bolstering local communities.
As a newly inducted member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Klook pledges to promote sustainability measures throughout the experience sector.
These initiatives include the endorsement of a new eco-friendly travel standard through partnerships with businesses emphasising sustainable practices, an initiative to enhance animal welfare at elephant sanctuaries, and the provision of thousands of complimentary guided local tours, enhancing cultural preservation and aiding small businesses within the tourism ecosystem.
With over 200 certified sustainable activities to date, travelers will have more opportunities and options to make eco-conscious choices across various destinations.
To further strengthen its commitment to responsible tourism, the company is taking a firm stance on animal welfare, introducing a set of criteria for experiences involving elephants. The assessment was developed in consultation with Asian Captive Elephant Standards (ACES), experts in the field of captive elephant welfare.
Klook’s efforts extend beyond accreditation, actively working with local partners to elevate standards of care and support for both the animals and the communities they operate within. At launch, 12 elephant sanctuaries are already part of the new ‘Klook Assessed’ programme, with more expected to join. — VNS
