Industry on changes to holidays

Now to something that concerns China's tourism industry which has given a general welcome to recent proposals to alter the system of national holidays.

Some insiders say they expect a short-term slow-down in business for certain sectors. But they also stress that the proposed changes are unlikely to put a brake on a rapidly growing industry.

China's 20 thousand travel agencies only get business from 10 percent of total travellers during national holidays, and most choose outbound travel. For domestic scenic spots, people are inclined to pick independent itineraries.

Travel agencies say the shortening of the May Day holiday will affect their outbound travel business. But they also say they expect to get more customers for domestic travel, which will mean some compensation for their losses.

Gao Zhiquan, General Manager, China Youth Travel Services, said, "There will always be demand for travel. Changes to China's holiday system will not make anyone cancel his or her travel plans. Instead, people will just adjust their plans."

But different sectors may adapt differently to the change. In the hotel industry, an altered holiday structure will hit smaller, budget hotels which make their money from group travellers during national holidays. But the changes could prove a boon for luxury hotels.

Du Chunhua, Hotel Nikko New Century, said, "Usually we get fewer business customers during national holidays. I think the adjustment could mean more business."

On Friday, the Chinese government released a plan to shorten the May Day holiday turning some traditional festivals into one-day holidays instead.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei