CIRD president outlines goals for development of Hainan tourism

President of China Institute for Reform and Development Chi Fulin is calling for an open public discussion on the development of Hainan International Tourism Island, with a focus on urban-rural integration and sustainability.

Talks of opening the island off of China's south coast to international tourism have been ongoing for nearly a decade, aiming to build an international first-class recreation and holiday destination. Since then, the tourist industry of Hainan, often dubbed the "Hawaii of China," has undergone rapid development.

Chi outlined three main objectives for development:

1. Develop a medium- and long-term plan for construction that mitigates short-term boom potential.

2. Optimize tourism and land resources, giving cities and counties discretion to use them as they see fit, within reason.

3. Enhance overall services, including medical care, education, financial insurance, telecommunications and entertainment.

Chi also said the government should instruct investors in a positive way. He said the development offers a historic opportunity in accelerating Hainan's urbanization, though he cautioned that the land should be used under control and not overdeveloped.