China pledges more reform on tourism development

China will carry out more reforms to boost investment and consumption in tourism industry, the State Council, or China’s cabinet, decided on July 29, 2015 according to a statement released after an executive meeting of the State Council presided over by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

In the statement it is confirmed that “Tourism development is significant in fostering the country’s modern service sector. … Better and colorful tourism activities will enrich people’s life, and also boost economic development.”

The meeting urged improving tourism consumption including the construction of regional airports especially in less-developed central and western China.

Public-private-partnerships (PPP) in developing tourism projects will be promoted with more government investment and individual capital participation.

Prof. Dr. Arlt, Director COTRI: “The statement is another example of the increased level of attention the current Chinese government is paying to tourism, including domestic, inbound and outbound as a way to boost consumer spending.”