In the first half of 2004, China's outbound tourism market maintained strong momentum and became the spotlight of the industry, according to a source from National Tourism Conference held Tuesday in Urumqi.

China has become the biggest Asian nation in terms of outbound travelers, with the total number of outbound Chinese residents surpassing 13 million in the first half of the year.

The increase of outbound tourists indicates China's rapid economic growth and peoples' desire to see the world, said He Guangwei, director of China National Tourism Administration (CNTA).

China has now approved 73 nations as tourism destinations, with 28 already in operation. By September, another 26 European nations will welcome Chinese tourists.

He said that China has become an important tourism source nation to the world. The increase of outbound tourists not only promotes bilateral tourism exchanges, but also enhances mutual friendship and understanding.