"It is believed China will replace the United States and become the biggest tourism economy worldwide," he said. "The tourism industry has played a significant role in GDP contribution and job creation."

It is believed the tourism industry will create 70 million new jobs by 2023, with 47 million in Asia, he said.

He Xiqing, deputy head of Hainan province, said the island provides China a testing ground to improve its tourism industry. Hainan has made great achievements in developing its economy with the tourism industry playing a leading role, she said.

Overnight visitors to the island increased from 22.5 million in 2009 to 33.2 million in 2012, a 13.8 percent increase, while revenue from tourism in the province rose from 21.1 billion yuan ($3.5 billion) in 2009 to 37.9 billion yuan in 2012, an increase of 21.4 percent, she said.

The province has received 25.31 million visits during the first three quarters this year, with total revenue reaching 26.65 billion yuan.

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