This jointly released report by the China Tourism Academy and WTA lauds China’s accomplishments in poverty reduction by showcasing the role of tourism in making a difference and impact on this globally pervasive topic.

The report, jointly published by the WTA, the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Poverty Reduction Center in China (IPRCC), advocates the idea of poverty alleviation through development, and contributes examples and solutions to the cause of tourism based poverty alleviation. The cases were collected through various channels, including international organizations, global members of the WTA and relevant departments of the Chinese government, and reviewed by the expert panel in accordance with the principles of fairness and impartiality, and based on the criteria of quantifiable effect, innovation, replicability, positive social impact and sustainability. Finally, 29 best practices have been recorded in the report.

Following the WTA vision of "Better Tourism, Better Life, Better World" and the WTA mission to promote peace, development and poverty alleviation through tourism, The theme of the WTA • Xianghu Dialogue 2019 had identified its theme as "Poverty Alleviation and Development -- Shared Responsibilities of World Tourism Community", which echoes the current trend of sustainable development, emphasizing the social responsibilities of the world tourism industry.