HAIKOU /China/, September 14. /TASS/. Haikou, the administrative center of China's southern Hainan Province, plans to stimulate long-term development of the tourism sector through a rich program of cultural recreation, the Haikou Daily newspaper reported.
According to the newspaper, Haikou authorities aim to create new quality tourism products that will not only make local attractions more appealing to travelers visiting Hainan but will also contribute to the dynamic development of the regional consumption sector.
According to Wang Ke, director of Haikou Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports Bureau, the city government intends to enhance its tourism competitiveness through large-scale cultural and entertainment events, by attracting popular brands and effectively utilizing resources in the hospitality industry. Multifaceted products that harmoniously combine cultural, consumer and sports components are expected to significantly increase the flow of tourists from all over China and other countries.
An important role in integrating the tourism and cultural segments is played by Haikou's historic district, the Qilou Old Street with its many shops, which have harmoniously combined the cultures of China and Southeast Asian countries. It is expected that the intangible cultural heritage of the city with the help of innovations will acquire a new charm, will allow to increase the comfort of recreation for tourists.
Haikou has a 900-year history. It is the main cultural and economic center of the province, actively developing cooperation with other countries. The city, whose population reaches 2.9 million people, accounts for about a third of Hainan's gross regional product. In accordance with the Chinese government's plan, a large cluster of headquarters and representative offices of some multinational companies is being formed here.