China to boost culture and tourism consumption

China will put in place more measures to tap consumption potential in culture and tourism, for a lasting and sound economic growth, said a circular released by the State Council on Aug 23.

According to the circular, the government will lower ticket prices at State-owned scenic spots, and banks will be encouraged to issue co-branded cards to offer more discounts and perks for consumers.

Meanwhile, payment will become more convenient. By 2022, bank card and mobile payment will be supported in all cultural and tourist sites, and the coverage of online ticketing and 4G/5G network will reach 90 percent.

Unified inbound tourism promotion platforms will be built, and targeted travel routes, destinations, art performances, and special products should be developed for overseas travelers, it said.

By 2022, the nation will build 30 demonstration cities and 100 pilot cities in cultural and tourism consumption, and the average spending in the field should exceed 6 percent of personal consumption in demonstration cities.

Small and medium-scale tourism performing products with special themes and local characteristics should be supported, the circular said.

Local governments will be encouraged to increase investment in public facilities in tourist areas for safety and facility upgrades. And by 2020, ticket reservation systems will be applied to all 5A State-owned scenic spots.

The circular also expressed the government's support for holiday and night economy. Enterprises and their employees are encouraged to flexibly arrange their paid annual leave to avoid peak times. By 2022, more than 200 national nighttime consumption areas will be established.

Related departments should support the development of cruise and yacht tourism, theme tourism for intangible cultural heritage, and integrate culture and tourism with modern technology such as 5G and virtual reality, according to the circular.