Japan

KKR and Marriott International announced their entry into Japan's midscale hospitality market, with the conversion of 14 acquired Unizo hotels into Four Points Express by Sheraton, marking Marriott's midscale debut in Asia Pacific.

Marriott International and HMI Hotel Group are rebranding seven HMI properties across five major Japanese cities to align with global hospitality trends.

Japan's hotel industry experienced significant growth in 2023, achieving top global tourist destination status, with a rebound in foreign visits and high investment despite not reaching 2019 levels.

Maybank Securities forecasts significant revenue potential for Thai gambling complexes, but warns of initial profitability challenges and limited tourism industry benefits.

Hyatt aims to expand its presence in China's economy and midscale hotel segments, leveraging local partnerships and focusing on second and third-tier cities.

The Philippines Dept. of Tourism reported that from January to March 4 this year, over 1.23 million international travelers visited.

The all-new Four Seasons Hotel Dalian is the first international luxury brand to open in the Chinese city in the past decade, while the forthcoming property in Okinawa will open in 2027.

Katerina Giannouka has left Jumeirah Group, one year into her time as CEO. Thomas Meier, CEOO, will serve as Interim CEO again.

A 60 member House committee in Thailand that is tasked with considering the possibility of developing Thailand’s first legal casinos continues to have trouble completing the task at hand.

Hilton reported a solid earnings report yesterday and said full year APAC RevPAR was up 587% versus 2022. It also said Beijing, Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur were standout markets for them.