China has rich cultural resources and natural sceneries, yet the country's tourist industry still lags behind the world's mature tourist markets. According to a recent survey conducted by China Tourism Academy among foreign travelers, respondents had relatively low satisfaction with tourism environment, public services and the sense of security during their tours.
On Oct. 1, China's first tourism law took effect. The law aims to regulate the country's tourism market and upgrade the sector's services. The new law bans profits from hidden traveler costs, such as mandatory shopping outings and says scenic spots are not allowed to receive tourists exceeding their capacities, and these should be made public.
Meanwhile, foreign tourists will find it easier to file their complaints against fraudulent conducts, as the law requires that local authorities designate or set up agencies to handle complaints. The changes are expected to boost the country's tourism market and create a safe and secure environment for foreign tourists. China is estimated to receive 200 million overseas tourists by 2020 according to National Tourism Administration. Tourism will become a strategic pillar industry by 2015 and basically meet international advanced standards in terms of the sector's scale, quality and efficiency by 2020.