Rosanna Law: govt determined to crack down on malpractices in tourism sector

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With the mainland’s May Day Golden Week holiday approaching, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law said she has informed the tourism sector of her determination to crack down on malpractices such as forcing tourists to shop. The Travel Industry Authority will also strengthen its inspections.

During the mainland’s five-day May Day Golden Week holiday, approximately 980,000 tourists are expected to visit Hong Kong.

Law said that hotel occupancy rates in Hong Kong are expected to reach over 90%, and all government departments are prepared to welcome them.

Law said: “Previously, there were incidents of forced shopping, and the travel agencies and tour guides involved had their licenses revoked.”

Law said she has informed the tourism industry of her determination to crack down on such practices, and the Travel Industry Authority will strengthen its inspections during the May Day holiday. Tourists who suspect they are being forced to shop can also file a complaint.

Law said: “With mobile phones so easily used for filming, if there is evidence, it's not necessarily true that the suspect can't be arrested.”

She also said the authorities will strengthen their crackdown on unlicensed taxis, including at airports and land border crossings.

The Customs and Excise Department has also joined forces with the Travel Industry Authority to conduct inspections and crack down on fraudulent business practices. Law urged the industry not to damage Hong Kong's tourism reputation.