Work

Advancing generative AI for stakeholder empowerment in community-based tourism: an experimental approach to inclusivity and sustainability

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is transforming community-based tourism (CBT) by promoting inclusivity and sustainability. This study investigates the use of Kimi.ai, a GenAI platform developed by Moonshot AI, to simulate interactions among six key stakeholder groups: administrators, investors, entrepreneurs, local business owners, marginalized residents, and tourists. The findings demonstrate that identity-based chatbot interactions effectively address stakeholder-specific needs, support cultural preservation, and encourage economic inclusivity. Through thematic and sentiment analyses, the study shows GenAI’s potential to enhance stakeholder engagement, resource coordination, and problem-solving within Community-Based Tourism ecosystems. It offers practical insights for policymakers and practitioners, highlighting GenAI’s role in advancing equitable and sustainable tourism. Future research on emerging technologies is encouraged to further strengthen decision-making and operational effectiveness in community-based tourism development.

Source: Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

DOI: 10.1057/s41599-026-09374-3

Authors: Jinsheng Jason Zhu, Aranya Siriphon

Institutions: Guilin Tourism University, City University of Macau, Chiang Mai University

Language: English

Topic: Community-based Tourism Development and Sustainability

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,890

Funder: Chiang Mai University