In conjunction with the beginning of Tourism Ireland's largest ever China sales mission, Tourism Minister Shane Ross announced Monday in a media release that the Irish national tourist board's marketing investment in China will double this year to 1M euro, and marketing staff will be increased from 6 to 12.

Shane Ross TD

Tourism Ireland plans to establish for the first time a presence in Hong Kong, and appoint new digital advertising and PR agencies for the China market.

Tourism Ireland's goal is to grow visitor numbers from China to 200,000 annually by 2025.

Britain has traditionally provided 40% of Ireland's inbound international visitors, but Brexit uncertainties have put this market at risk.