Abacus International has expressed optimism about the planned changes to China’s airline distribution regulations.
From 1 October 2012, the new Civil Aviation Administration of China’s (CAAC) rules will enable foreign airlines to distribute their fares and content via non-Chinese GDSs, including Abacus. Following the ruling, Abacus said it plans to work with agencies and airlines to take advantage of the new opportunities being offered.
“This market opening is a very exciting time for Abacus,” said Robert Bailey, the company’s President & CEO. “We are in an ideal situation, especially with our Asia Pacific leadership through our 11 shareholder and partner airlines – they represent a significant volume in and out of China, and we will work closely with them to best augment and heighten travel growth in this important market.”
Abacus already has offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Chengdu, and Bailey said this presence would enable Abacus to be “a forerunner in the market, helping our travel agents and airlines better cater to their customers’ needs”.
“Abacus understands not only China, but the entire Greater China region, including Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. The sharp growth in this region demands airlines and agencies to be innovative, nimble and relevant, which is exactly what Abacus strives to achieve in our daily operations. We have a market share of over 75% of the combined Hong Kong and Taiwan markets and by leveraging our strong presence and expertise in this sub-region, we are able to bring a greater number of key solutions and service synergies to our customers and partners,” Bailey added.
The move follows the recent decision by Amadeus to set up a new Beijing office, in order to take advantage of the new regulations.
