The International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) held its 2018 annual conference in Guiyang, Guizhou province on Oct 13.

Under the theme of "New era: Seize development opportunities with technological innovation", the conference consisted of sub forums, sharing sessions and photographic exhibitions.

With the emerging of the new digital economy, the future of mountain tourism lies in further integration with new technologies, including big data, artificial intelligence and smart gears.

Serge Koenig, a famous French outdoor sports expert, discussed how high-tech gears are helping adventurers with climbing and skiing.

Chen Ning, general manager of AliCloud's tourism arm, introduced the company's tourism guide services, including facial recognition and real-time positioning.

Fourteen representatives from the world's most famous mountains shared their experiences in protecting and utilizing mountain resources, stimulating mountain economies and how to help mountain communities benefit from tourism. Other major focuses of the conference were overseas exchange, cultural preservation, e-commerce and IP promotion.

IMTA proposed during the conference to name May 29 as the International Mountain Tourism Day in recognition of legendary mountaineer Edmund Hillary conquering Mount Everest for the first time in human history on the same day in 1953. IMTA hopes the day will encourage more people to experience mountain tourism, embrace a healthy lifestyle and help people living in mountain areas.

IMTA is a non-government, non-profit international organization established in Guiyang, Guizhou province on Aug 15, 2017 with the approval of the State Council, China's Cabinet.

Around 150 organizations and individuals from 29 mountainous countries and regions have so far volunteered to join the alliance. Guizhou province will continue to support the alliance as it aids in developing international mountain tourism.

Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin speaks at the conference. [Photo/todayguizhou.com]

Attendees share opinions with each other [Photo/todayguizhou.com]