Ministry mandates crackdown on 'unreasonably low-priced' tours

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism released a notice on Monday afternoon on tightening regulation of unreasonably low-priced group tours, and forced purchases.

It said that travel agencies are key operators and play an important regulatory role in the industry. Following the notice's release, travel agencies are required to sign contracts with travelers and should not change itineraries without their permission.

They are responsible for protecting customers' rights, and risk punishment if they are found to be committing fraud or forcing tourists to make purchases during trips.

Agencies are also required to improve personnel management and pay tour guides on time. Training should be available to tour guides to improve the quality of their service.

The ministry described unreasonably low-priced group tours as a "stubborn illness" that severely affects the regular management of the market, and hampers the development of the tourism industry. Cultural and tourism authorities are required to crack down on the operation of any unreasonably low-priced group tours, as well as on the improper behavior of tour guides forcing travelers to purchase goods during trips.

The ministry said that it will publish details of cases in which tour operators and employees violate market regulations and negatively affect the industry.

Local authorities must tighten management and supervision of travel agencies and tour guides through interviews, administrative guidance and by collecting public feedback.

The performance of local authorities in regulating tourism will be included in their government work assessment, and contextual, effective and long-term mechanisms for tourism management must be established.

The ministry also encouraged local tourism associations to draft and publish guide prices to alert the public against unreasonably low-priced group tours.