China Hands Out $14 Million in Vouchers to Bolster Tourism

More than 100 million yuan ($13.8 million) in consumer vouchers were distributed across China as part of a month-long campaign aimed at spurring spending and boosting tourism, set to run until the end of May, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism [para. 1]. The nationwide campaign also introduced more than 6,300 measures for travelers, including price cuts and free admission to scenic spots, discounts, freebies from travel companies, events, and performances [para. 2].

The campaign was announced by the ministry in early April. They asked local authorities to collaborate with businesses such as telecom carriers, financial institutions, rail operators, and airlines to promote the event [para. 3][para. 6]. This initiative comes as a response to the current state of China’s uneven economic recovery, which has led more tourists to opt for cheaper trips to less well-known destinations [para. 4].

Recent data from the tourism ministry indicated a surge in overall spending during China's Labor Day holiday, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, although per capita spending remained lackluster [para. 5]. Quick Takes provides condensed versions of China-related stories for fast news consumption [para. 6]. Readers are invited to contact Wang Xintong and editor Michael Bellart for more information [para. 7].