Organizers of the 2015 China Marine Economy Expo hope the event will boost the local tourism industry.

A special marine cultural festival will be held during the 2015 CMEE, to be held from Nov 26 to 29 in Zhanjiang, according to the organizers. It aims to increase exchanges in the tourism industry and ultimately help attract more tourists to Zhanjiang.

Located in the southernmost tip of the Chinese mainland, Zhanjiang is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine and rich marine tourism resources. The city has a long coastline and a large number of islands.

Organizers have sent invitations to travel companies in a number of foreign countries and regions, most of which are located along the maritime route of the ancient Silk Road. Representatives from more than 150 travel companies, airlines, hotels and scenic spots from home and abroad are expected to participate in the festival.

"In addition to showcasing the rich tourism resources of Zhanjiang, special scenic spots, select tourist routes, culture and customs in nations and regions along the ancient Silk Road will be on display during the festival to help attract Chinese and foreign tourists," the event's organizers said.

They said special trade fairs, presentations, forums, seminars and briefings on tourist attractions will also be organized during the festival.

One of the highlights of the event will be a 2.75-kilometer-long pearl necklace weighing more than a metric ton. The necklace, which is the world's longest pearl necklace, according to the Guinness World Records, is expected to become a new attraction to both Chinese and foreign visitors and tourists at the festival. The necklace is said to comprise 316,474 seawater pearls.

An international food festival, showcasing the cuisines of countries along the maritime Silk Road, will be held alongside the 2015 CMEE.

There will be 120 booths at the food festival's 6,500-square-meter exhibition center, featuring local and foreign specialties.

An international food area will also display many kinds of special snacks and fruits from France, Italy, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom.

The Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan food area will host a Taiwan night fair and showcase snacks, fruits and souvenirs from the three Chinese regions. The local food area will highlight Zhanjiang's food culture.

zhengcaixiong@chinadaily.com.cn