Sichuan launches 100-day tourism market crackdown

Key points

• A video conference was held in Chengdu on 21 September, announcing the launch of Sichuan's 100-day "Thunder Action" for the tourism market.
• Culture and tourism departments will work with public security, transport and market regulation authorities to build cross-regional, multi-department joint enforcement mechanisms and improve rapid handling of tourism disputes.
• Four prominent problems are the focus: illegal agencies, illegal guides, illegal shopping outlets and illegal vehicles, with top-level penalties and closed-loop rectification.
• Ahead of the Mid-Autumn and National Day peaks, the meeting required close attention to autumn rain and flood geological risk prevention with closed-loop early-warning response.
• The meeting required stronger risk control at scenic areas and homestays, improved warning signs and barriers on slopes and valleys, and better crowd flow management and patrols.
• It required tighter safety control of high-risk amusement projects such as high-altitude, high-speed and diving activities, with strict operating procedures, qualification reviews and certified staff.
• It required strict checks on vehicle and driver qualifications, and urged agencies and guides to follow the "five no-charter" rule for tour buses and "three no-charter" rule for sightseeing boats.
• During the two holidays Sichuan will offer 596 culture and tourism programmes and 4,412 events, and eight cities or prefectures signed a cross-regional strategic cooperation agreement for the Thunder Action.