China rolls out measures to boost recreational vehicle tourism and consumption

China is encouraging regions to develop a number of distinctive recreational vehicle (RV) tourism routes as part of a broader push to unlock RV consumption and cultivate RV camping as a new growth area, according to a new guideline released on Friday.

The guideline, issued by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and nine other central government departments has been approved by the State Council, China's Cabinet.

The new policy aims to remove bottlenecks in RV consumption, unleash consumption potential and better meet rising consumer demand.

The measures span the entire RV industry chain, from manufacturing and registration to parking, campgrounds, rentals, insurance and tourism promotion.

On the supply side, China will encourage RV makers to improve suitability, comfort and user experience, and to develop new-energy, smart and green RVs. It will accelerate the development of standards for vehicle safety and key components, while supporting modifications such as energy storage and living facilities.

For small and mini self-propelled RVs used for rental, the service life will be extended from 15 to 25 years; for caravan trailers, from 15 to 20 years. Areas with suitable conditions are encouraged to add driver's license test sites.

To improve access and parking, local authorities will be supported in refining urban road rules and ensuring normal RV passage.

Height-restriction devices at major intersections and public parking lots should take RV needs into consideration. Cities are encouraged to build centralized RV parking areas, while scenic-area parking lots, expressway service areas and public parking lots are guided to provide RV spaces and basic services such as water, charging and sewage disposal. Parking fees should be set reasonably.

Tourism companies will be encouraged to combine RV sales, rentals and travel into customized products, and to build high-quality self-driving routes. The measures also call for regulating camping behavior and promoting leave-no-trace camping.

Rental companies are encouraged to offer credit-based deposit-free and one-way return services, and to use AI and virtual reality for smart recommendations, video vehicle viewing and remote guidance.

Financial support includes more RV-related insurance products and efforts to lower operating costs for rental and campground businesses.