TEHRAN – Iran’s pavilion was awarded the title of best booth at the Guangzhou International Travel Fair (CITIE 2025) on Saturday, its first participation in the event, organizers said.

The pavilion was recognized for its use of historical elements, traditional features and design, as well as high visitor turnout, CHTN reported.

At an official ceremony on Sept. 13, CITIE deputy director presented an honorable mention to Mohammad Hossein Soufi, head of Iran’s pavilion and managing director of the Touring and Automobile Club of Iran. Soufi said the achievement reflected the collective effort of his team.

“Our pavilion succeeded by emphasizing aesthetics, cultural and civilizational themes, and direct interaction with visitors,” Soufi said. “We are pleased that our presence increased attendance at the fair and created a valuable opportunity to introduce Iran.”

Iran’s pavilion featured eight travel agencies, a handicraft artisan, traditional clothing displays and Iranology workshops, making it one of the most visited sections of the fair, according to organizers.

The three-day event in Guangdong province, running from Sept. 12 to 14, is regarded as one of East Asia’s major tourism exhibitions.

Iran’s participation comes as the country seeks to boost arrivals from China. In 2019, Tehran waived visa requirements for Chinese nationals in a bid to attract more tourists.

AM