What’s new: More than 100 million yuan ($13.8 million) in consumer vouchers were distributed across China as part of a monthlong campaign to spur spending and boost tourism that will run until the end of May, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
More than 6,300 measures for travelers, including price cuts and free admission to scenic spots, as well as discounts and freebies offered by travel companies, were also created for the nationwide campaign, the ministry said in a statement Sunday, which marked this year’s China Tourism Day. Others include events and performances.
The ministry announced the campaign in early April, asking local authorities to work with businesses such as telecom carriers, financial institutions, rail operators and airlines to promote the event.
The background: The campaign comes as authorities are trying to boost confidence of both consumers and the tourism industry as the country’s uneven economic recovery has led to more tourists taking cheaper trips to less well-known destinations.
During China’s recent Labor Day holiday, overall spending surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, but per capita spending remained lackluster, according to data from the tourism ministry.
Contact reporter Wang Xintong (xintongwang@caixin.com) and editor Michael Bellart (michaelbellart@caixin.com)
