China fights against illegal tourism operations

Beijing. April 24. Silkroadnews - China's newly established top tourism authority said on Friday that it has continued fighting against illegal operations in the tourism market, especially internet operator and behaviors violating criminal law, China Daily reports.
"We will set up law enforcement teams to monitor the tourism market in terms of environmental protection, industry and commerce, revenue, and culture," said Li Jinzao, vice-minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
"As for those serious illegal operations violating criminal law, we will deal with them in strict accordance with the law, rather than only make punishment by fines," he said. "For example, some so-called low-cost tourist groups forced tourists to buy goods. That is extortion, which violates criminal law."
In addition, the deputy minister also warned internet companies in the tourism market not to play petty tricks on consumers.
"Internet technology truly makes our travel much more convenient than ever before, but some internet companies should reflect on themselves if they receive complaints many times," Li said. "That is the next priority for our work."