On September 14, 2024, China's National Philosophy and Social Sciences Planning Office announced that Professor Zou Tongqian, Vice Rector of Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, has been approved for a key project funded by the National Social Science Fund of China. To date, Professor Zou has received a main project, a key project, and a general project from the China Social Science Fund, as well as a general project from the China Natural Science Fund. The National Social Science Fund and the National Natural Science Fund are the highest scientific funding bodies in China for social sciences and natural sciences, respectively.

The newly approved project is titled “Research on the Operational Mechanism and Governance of the Tourism Internet Celebrity Economy in the Era of Omni-media.” This project aims to explore the unique dynamics of the tourism internet celebrity economy and its impact on tourism development in China. The research will offer valuable insights into the management and marketing of tourism destinations that have gained prominence through online platforms and social media. By examining the evolving dynamics of the internet celebrity economy, the project seeks to provide practical strategies for public governance and the sustainable development of internet celebrity tourism destinations.

Professor Zou’s research continues to position him at the forefront of China's burgeoning tourism industry, providing critical analysis that supports policymakers and tourism stakeholders. The findings will also contribute to theoretical research in the field of tourism worldwide.