China to build tourism into strategic pillar industry

China is pledging to promote its tourism industry and build it into a strategic pillar industry in the economy.

A State Council executive meeting, chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao, has called for improved service and management in the sector. It says more efforts should be made to improve tourism infrastructure and enhance training.

The central government will also lower the market threshold to encourage social capital and enterprises to invest in the sector. It also pledges to maintain collaborative development between tourism and relative industries, including culture, sports, agriculture, and environmental protection.

The State Council has also called for the protection of the eco-system, natural environment as well as historical and cultural heritage.