The Travel Industry Authority has for the first time revoked the licence of a tour guide, after a disciplinary hearing found his behaviour "unacceptable" and had tarnished the reputation of Hong Kong's tourism industry.

Lam Chun-fai hurled abusive language towards his mainland clients who visited the SAR on a package tour in February.

He criticised them not for shopping in stores, and threatened to change their itinerary while on a coach.

"The [authority] immediately launched an investigation after receiving complaints from the tourists involved," the authority said in a press release on Friday, adding Lam had admitted wrongdoing.

"After considering the results of the investigation, the authority believes Lam was unfit to continue as a tour guide and decided to take disciplinary action in accordance with Section 111 of the Travel Industry Ordinance."

Established in 2020, the authority aims to "promote the integrity, competence and professionalism" of the travel industry practitioners and regulate shops frequented by inbound tour groups.

It was set up after a raft of complaints from inbound visitors regarding poor service and coerced spending.

The regulator is also empowered to take a range of disciplinary actions against tour guides, escorts and travel agents.

Three tour guides have previously been given reprimanded and received demerit points.