The Deputy Mayor of Moscow spoke about the growth of the tourist flow from foreign countries

From January to March, almost 6 million tourists visited the capital. Over 550,000 of them came from abroad, which is 5% more than in the same period last year. The number of travelers from non-CIS countries increased by 12%, said Deputy Mayor of Moscow Natalia Sergunina.

"Approximately half of the tourist flow from non-CIS countries came from citizens of the People's Republic of China. The number of Chinese travelers who visited Moscow in the first quarter of this year increased by a third. India and Turkey are next," Sergunina said.

According to her, the tourist flow from China continues to increase, including due to cultural cross-projects between the two countries and the mutual visa-free regime, which was introduced last year.

Thus, the Moscow Maslenitsa in Beijing festival was held in the capital of the People's Republic of China from February 19 to 22. Guests could take part in master classes, attend musical and vocal performances, and taste pancakes with different fillings. With the help of augmented reality technology, those interested were also offered to walk around Moscow and see its sights.

A festival in honor of the Chinese New Year was held in the Russian capital from February 16 to March 1. The central venue was Manezhnaya Square, where citizens and tourists could watch performances by artists from different provinces of China, join interactive quests, create musical instruments tangu and red hongbao envelopes for gifts and wishes, and taste national treats. Tea ceremonies, a Chinese board game championship, and exhibitions were organized for visitors to other venues.

Last year, 26.5 million tourists (including 2.8 million foreigners) visited Moscow, half a million more than in 2024. During the year, the industry's contribution to the economy of the capital exceeded 1.8 trillion rubles. The volume of revenues to the Moscow city budget amounted to 250 billion rubles. The statistics took into account the expenses of tourists for accommodation, food, transport, cultural program, shopping.