Easing Of Rules For Tour Groups 'a Good Start': TIC

The chairwoman of the Travel Industry Council (TIC) on Tuesday described the easing of amber code restrictions on tour groups as a good start, but said more rules should be relaxed to attract tourists.

Gianna Hsu’s comment came a day after the government said it would allow inbound tour groups to visit attractions such as theme parks, museums and temples as soon as they arrive in the city.

Speaking on an RTHK programme, Hsu said while the move sends a positive message to the world, it's not likely to have a significant and immediate impact on the tourism trade.

"We don't expect that the easing of amber code restrictions for tour groups will immediately attract many inbound tourists, especially during the beginning. After all, we still have some Covid restrictions in place. But it is a start," she said, adding that she believes the new measure will bring in some visitors from Southeast Asia.

She said her council will work with the government to finalise the list of attractions to be covered under the new arrangement, which she said will include theme parks and the M+ museum.

Under the new arrangement for inbound tour groups, the government also said travellers will be allowed to have their meals inside partitioned areas within designated restaurants.

The chairman of the Association for Hong Kong Catering Services Management, Leung Chun-wah, told RTHK he expects large Chinese restaurants to benefit the most under the new rules.

Leung added that he hopes officials will divulge more details about the plan, such as what epidemic measures restaurants are required to adopt, and what should be done if customers with the amber code are infected.