The number of Chinese tourists to Switzerland increased 62 percent last year over 2004, and China was the 15th tourism source market for Switzerland, according to tourism sources.

In September 2004, the Chinese government gave Switzerland destination status for Chinese tourists.

In the past two years, the number of Chinese tourists to Switzerland grew sharply. Lying in central Europe, Switzerland is favored by Chinese tourists due to its convenient transportation, beautiful scenery and refined watch industry.

Last year, Swiss people approved the decision to join the Schegen agreement. Chinese tourists are expected to visit Switzerland with Schegen visas by 2008.

(Xinhua News Agency July 17, 2006)