Lin-gang Special Area will promote the development of the tourism and sports industries, according to several policies announced at a tourism resource promotional event held on May 20.

The government will give subsidies or rewards to firms that develop new tourism project models, high-level brands, boutique homestays, characteristic tourist routes and improved public facilities.

Encourage investment in distinctive and high-quality tourism and sports projects

For firms whose projects make full use of parks, Dishui Lake, river courses, coastal shorelines and other fields in Lin-gang, or which introduce well-known domestic and foreign well-known brand hotels, sports clubs, and super IP, a capital support not exceeding 30 percent of the total investment and no more than 30 million yuan ($4.2 million) will be given if their total amount of new construction, capital increase, expansion, function improvement or other increased investment exceeds five million yuan.

For key enterprises in line with the development plans for the tourism and sports industries, Lin-gang Special Area will provide subsidies of discount interest for bank loans. If the amount of the imported high-end equipment needed for project operation exceeds five million yuan per piece, the government will also give certain subsidies according to the import tax payment situation. The maximum amount given in subsidies will not exceed one million yuan.

Encourage the establishment and selection of high-grade and high-star brands

Rewards can be obtained in Lin-gang Special Area by applying for national A-level tourist attractions, star-level tourist hotels, green tourist hotels, national and municipal tourism, sports titles of honors and A-level assessments of travel agencies.

Support the development of the homestay industry

A one-time subsidy fund of 50,000 yuan will be given to each guest room for homestays with special trade licenses. The maximum amount for each guest will not exceed one million yuan. For newly rated five-star and four-star homestays, a one-time reward of one million yuan and 500,000 yuan will be given respectively.

Promote the agglomeration and development of industries of all types and chains

Rental subsidies will be provided to the upstream and downstream service enterprises of the tourism and sports industry chains. Travel agencies or related units that offer specially themed tourist routes and ticket packages, carry out tourism promotion, organize tourism festival events, forums and transactions can also get subsidies.

Provide high quality and efficient public intelligent services

For the projects of public service facilities for tourism and sports, Lin-gang will provide subsidies for operating expenses or one-time financial support on the construction of high-quality and distinctive tourist toilet lamps. The quality of the tourist toilets rated as 3A will be supported by a one-time fund of 300,000 yuan. If special toilets and creative toilets are built in scenic spots and sports venues and are recognized by tourists and residents, 200,000 yuan of one-time fund will be given.