Adaptive Co-Management for Regional Tourism Governance Under the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Greater Bay Area, China

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined the process of adaptive co-management (ACM) among actors and institutions in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) in China to rejuvenate the region’s tourism recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 19 key informants from various government departments within the region. Results demonstrated how actors and flexible institutions at multiple geographical scales and levels had joined efforts to cope with the various phases of uncertainty through a learning-by-doing process. Several essential factors leading to the success of the learning process within the region, its positive outcomes, and barriers encountered. This study contributed to understanding how the region, through ACM, was able to balance the pandemic control measures and restoration of its tourism industry during the crisis. Practical suggestions were also offered.