Viking Takes Cautious Approach to Chinese Market Expansion

Viking is approaching the Chinese market with caution, as discussed by CFO Leah Talactac during the company’s second quarter earnings call.

Although the company currently operates four European river vessels tailored for Chinese travelers and has a joint venture ship in China, Talactac made it clear that this market is “a very small part of our business.”

Talactac pointed out that while Viking has successfully customized its offerings for Chinese customers, resulting in high net promoter scores, significant hurdles remain, particularly regarding visas and air travel availability.

“These are challenges that we expect will eventually be worked out,” she stated, though she emphasized that Viking is advancing with care for the time being.

Viking’s Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen reinforced this cautious stance, acknowledging the potential within the Chinese market but confirming that the company will continue with a careful strategy.

“Over time, if we could crack the China market, that would be great,” Hagen remarked.

However, he refrained from offering specific details on future plans or potential new ship deployments targeting China or Chinese passengers.

For now, Viking’s primary focus remains on its well-established markets, with China making up only a small segment of the company’s overall business.