The Travel Industry Council on Friday said the planned abolition of some border controls by Japan is good news for travel agencies here, as the country is a top holiday destination for Hong Kong people.

Japan has announced it will abolish a series of Covid-19 restrictions for travellers from October 11.

The TIC’s executive director Fanny Yeung said the move will help Hong Kong travel agents.

“Japan is always the most popular destination for Hong Kong people,” she said.

“With the relaxation and visa-free [travel], we will expect a significant growth in the tourists from Hong Kong going to Japan... It will definitely help on outbound travel.”

Steve Huen, executive director of EGL Tours which specialises in trips to Japan, said he expects a surge in the number of Hong Kong people travelling to the country in the coming months.

He said many people are eager to go on holiday there as the Japanese yen is currently very weak.