eTN, Jan 02, 2008

The loss in tourism earnings was the result of fewer visitors, shorter lengths of stay and discounted rates.
“It has been a very difficult year, with the loss of numbers and employees working short hours. The industry had to reduce rates to make business,” he said.
“Everyone reduced their rates from the airline to the hotels to the transport.
“Certainly in the TAG (Tourism Action Group) recovery program, everyone contributed to the reduction. It has been a very challenging year for the industry.
“The foreign exchange earnings subject to confirmation will be a $150m-$200m loss,” he said.
Fiji Visitors Bureau chairman Patrick Wong said while he expected visitor numbers to exceed the forecast, fewer people stayed in hotels and at heavily discounted rates.

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