BEIJING — According to a state planning official on Thursday (Jan 29), China is anticipating a record 9.50 billion passenger trips during the 40-day spring festival holiday travel period, surpassing last year's 9.02 billion domestic trips.

For the first time, China has extended its official Lunar New Year holiday week to nine days, from Feb 15 to Feb 23, in an effort to stimulate domestic consumption.

As part of a new services-led consumption drive to increase domestic demand, China is focusing on sectors like travel and tourism.

The 40-day travel rush during the country's largest holiday is often viewed as an indicator of China's economic vitality and a test for its extensive transportation system.

State officials mentioned that railway passenger trips are projected to reach 540 million, while aviation trips are expected to reach 95 million, both surpassing previous peak numbers for the period.

To meet the travel demands, transportation capacity will be enhanced on popular routes and in key areas, officials added.