Abstract

The tourism industry significantly contributes to the economic development of numerous emerging countries by facilitating the expansion of local enterprises. However, tourism may adversely affect the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage when it is not managed effectively. In this study, the case of Guilin city of China is undertaken for the analysis. Guilin, a popular tourist destination in southern China, has experienced rapid growth in tourism, generating economic benefits but also posing challenges related to environmental sustainability and social impact. This study uses Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to identify the most important criteria, sub-criteria, and effective policy strategies for promoting sustainable tourism in developing economies. Therefore, the study identified five criteria, twenty sub-criteria, and six policy strategies for sustainable tourism development in Guilin, China. The results of Fuzzy AHP method has identified economic viability, infrastructure and services, and social and cultural impact are the most suitable criteria for sustainable tourism. The results of Fuzzy TOPSIS method has recognized community-based tourism, sustainable tourism certification, and public-private partnerships as most effective strategies. This research provides useful insights for policymakers and stakeholders, enabling them to contribute to the sustainable development of the tourism industry and support the achievement of the United Nations sustainable development goals.