Air China to fly Melbourne-Beijing direct

Victorians will be able to fly direct from Melbourne to Beijing from June.

Air China announced they will offer four flights a week from June 1, increasing to a daily service from January 25.

Tourism Minister John Eren said the airline's plan was a vote of confidence in Victorian tourism.

"Air China's plan brings one of the world's biggest tourist markets even closer to our shores," he said.

"Chinese visitors to our state support local jobs and businesses, and contribute billions to our economy."

More than 365,000 Chinese tourists visited Victoria in the 12 months to September 2014, contributing $1.2 billion to the state's economy.

AAP