"We would like to welcome foreign capital, as well as funds from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, for investment in the domestic tourism industry," he said.

Allowing in more foreign investment would improve China's whole competitiveness in tourism, and domestic operators should be prepared for the challenge, he said.

China is the largest outbound tourism market in Asia. Statistics show that 34 million Chinese traveled overseas last year. Hong Kong was the most popular destination.

Last year, 15 countries and regions opened their doors to Chinese tourists. To date, Chinese travelers can visit 132 destinations.

With the number of outbound tourists on the rise, the administration will strengthen efforts to encourage travelers to watch their behavior while travelling this year.

The administration published a guidebook last year for people traveling to foreign countries, urging them to help maintain the country's image.

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