Travelport, the business services provider to the global travel industry, has announced the opening of a new operation in Vladivostok, situated at the head of the Golden Horn Bay in the Primorsky Krai region, near Russia’s border with north eastern China.

“Russia is a key growth region for Travelport and we’re delighted to be expanding our presence as part of our strategic development plans,” said Marcin Pilarski, managing director, eastern Europe.

“Vladivostok is a strategically important city with strong links to Korea, China and Japan and is expecting to see even stronger growth following the 400 per cent increase in GDS travel bookings in this region of Russia from 2011-2012.”

This new location is the latest in Travelport’s expansion across Russia, adding to the Travelport country headquarters in Moscow and operation in St Petersburg, and is in response to strong business growth and broadening customer demand.

Maria Yakushkina, country manager, Russia, commented:  “We have further strengthened our proposition in Russia with the recent signing of an agreement with Aero Club - the country’s largest travel management company.

“To be expanding and bringing this successful formula to agents in Vladivostok is great news for us, travel agents, travellers and the entire travel industry in Russia.”