Chinese tourists spending up big in Australia: report

Chinese tourists are expected to spend more than 4.1 billion Australian dollars (3.02 billion U.S. dollars) in Australian retail outlets during 2016, according to a report received on Friday.

The report, Chinese Tourist Spending Habits by Cross Border Management, highlighted the need for Australian retailers to pay more attention to the influx of Chinese tourists during the winter months.

"While a few large retail outlets and shopping malls put on events for Chinese New Year in February, most Australian stores do little to engage with Chinese visitors during other times," the report said.

"In particular, the spike in Chinese visitors during July and August represents a 700 million Australian dollar (516.61 million U.S. dollars) opportunity that's missed by most Australian retailers."

The report noted that surveyed Chinese shoppers wanted signs, the company of other Chinese, and someone who could help them shop while they in Australia.

The need for Australian restaurants to better target Chinese tourists was also noted.

"The number one thing they (Chinese tourists) want from Australian restaurants is a menu that shows them pictures of the dishes."

Consultancy firm Cross Border Management also noted 19,000 Chinese visitors come to Australia every week and spend almost 8,000 Australian dollars each (5,904 U.S. dollars), a third more than those from the U.S. or U.K.. Endit