SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers, has expanded its commercial portfolio in China with the opening of voco Xiamen SM City, positioning the company to capitalize on the country’s rapidly growing tourism and travel sector.
The new RMB 450-million upscale hotel offers 325 well-appointed rooms and features direct, seamless integration with SM City Xiamen—the landmark mall that marked SM Prime’s entry into China 25 years ago. Located steps from Wushipu Station on Metro Line 1, the hotel is approximately 15 minutes from both Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport and Xiamen Railway Station, ensuring high accessibility for international business travelers and domestic tourists alike.
The opening coincides with strong national tailwinds for China’s travel sector. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2026 Economic Impact Research report, China’s travel industry is projected to expand from US$1.8 trillion last year to US$3.5 trillion by 2036. This growth is further bolstered by the Chinese State Council’s recently approved five-year tourism plan through 2030, which prioritizes service upgrades, expanded product supply, unlocked consumer potential, and deeper international cooperation.
“voco Xiamen SM City is our first hotel in China, and it connects directly to SM City Xiamen, the very first property we opened in the country 25 years ago,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime Holdings. “With this strategic investment, we are transforming the complex into a complete lifestyle destination to capture the rising demand of both business and leisure travel.”
A major coastal hub in Fujian Province, Xiamen is host to the world’s 15th-largest container port and serves as one of China’s four major international shipping centers. Renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and Michelin-recognized dining, Xiamen is increasingly popular among Gen Z and millennial travelers seeking micro-vacations and immersive culinary experiences.
By integrating upscale hospitality with its established retail anchor, SM Prime reinforces its commitment to long-term growth in China while supporting the region’s booming tourism ecosystem.
