The Pacific Asia Travel Association has warned that smaller Asia Pacific countries will suffer from a drop in UK visitors due to increased APD.
Ian Hawkes, executive director of the UK Chapter, said the new four-tier tax was shortsighted.
“Today’s travellers are being forced to pay for increased security as well as a whole raft of administrative costs.
“At a time when our industry – one that already contributes substantially to the economy – is facing some of its biggest challenges for decades, this decision by the UK government is shortsighted and self-defeating.
“Asia Pacific is a vibrant region and one that has overcome several economic and environmental obstacles in recent years.
“This is bad news for UK travellers and operators for whom the region is a favourite, and it will be especially disappointing for the smaller countries of Asia Pacific who have done so much to make tourism a cornerstone of their economy.â€
By Bev Fearis
