The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has signed a Memorandum of Co-operation for a Joint Venture with Yunnan Tourism Co. Ltd to engage in development, construction, operation and management of two hotels in Kunming Expo Garden, situated in Yunnan province of southwest China. Kunming is a gateway to China, connecting Southeast Asia, South Asia, Middle East, Europe and Africa, and is just a two-hour flight from Kolkata, India.
"The Indian Hotel Company's presence in Kunming is critical for our selective global expansion plan because of its strategic location with access to key markets like Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Laos. It is a major communication and transport hub in China having good connectivity with the domestic Chinese tourism circuit. The entry of Taj and Vivanta by Taj brands in Kunming offers an exciting opportunity to establish the brands in the Chinese market," said Mr. Abhijit Mukerji, Executive Director, IHCL.
The IHCL and its subsidiaries, collectively known as Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, is one of Asia's largest group of hotels. Taj already has management contracts in place for a landmark hotel, Taj Temple of Heaven Beijing, in close proximity to the Temple of Heaven Park in Beijing. A key tourist destination, The Temple of Heaven Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed between 1406 and 1420 and used by Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Taj will also manage a luxury resort in Hainan Island, the premium resort destination in China. Apart from the renowned Taj hospitality, both the hotels will offer high-end accommodations, signature restaurants, banqueting facilities and Jiva Spa, Taj's acclaimed Indian and all natural spa.
Mr. Ge Bao-rong, General Manager, Yunnan Tourism Co. Ltd said, "We are delighted to partner with The Indian Hotels Company Limited to bring the Taj legendary service to the Yunnan province and China. We are confident that their expertise of the Indian and international markets combined with our understanding of the Chinese market will be immensely helpful in developing world class hotels at the historical Kunming Expo Garden."