China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) has denied it will put an end to the ratings system used for the country's scenic spots.

Less than a week ago, CNTA removed the 5A ratings of two scenic areas -- Orange Isle in Changsha city, Hunan Province and Dragon Gorge in Chongqing Municipality -- sparking speculation about possible abolishment of the ratings system.

An official with CNTA said the policy for assessment of scenic spots remains unchanged and that ratings for the two sites were changed due to a new rule worked out as a replacement.

The official explained that the previous rule promulgated in July 2005 was no longer suitable to conditions, so a decision on its abolishment was passed at a CNTA meeting on June 30 and took effect on July 19.

Lin Lan, a professor of tourism at Fujian Normal University, said reform of management at scenic spots would continue and abolition of the outdated rule was a response to State Council requirements to cut red tape and improve public services.