Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law has vowed to take a tough stance against unethical practices that have long tarnished the city’s tourism reputation, with the mainland's five-day Labour Day Golden Week approaching.

The Immigration Department estimates that about 980,000 mainland visitors will arrive by sea, land and air between May 1 and 5.

Speaking on a radio programme on Saturday, Law said authorities are determined to crack down on two long-standing problems: coercive shopping and so-called “black taxis” – rogue drivers who overcharge passengers.

She noted that the industry’s previous self-regulatory structure had already been overhauled with the establishment of the Travel Industry Authority, as a direct result of that determination.

“The authority has conducted many high-profile inspections, and some travel agencies and tour guides have had their licenses revoked,” Law said.

“I hope this shows our resolve.”

Law made it clear that there would be zero tolerance for misconduct, especially as Hong Kong rebuilds its tourism image.

“If today we are seeing a return of visitors, and Hong Kong’s tourism reputation is being rebuilt – and possibly even better than before – I will never tolerate any bad apples,” she said.

Regarding black taxis, Law said enforcement operations would target known problem areas.

“In fact, we know they could be at the airport, border checkpoints or even at night in Lan Kwai Fong,” she said. “So we will definitely clamp down on black taxis.”

The Customs and Excise Department and the Travel Industry Authority have already carried out joint inspections targeting unethical business practices such as switching price tags and mishandling change by some retailers.

Law urged industry players to cherish Hong Kong’s tourism reputation, warning that there is no room for shortcuts.

“Don’t think that just because there are more visitors – some of whom might not be fully aware – you can take the chance to do something illegal,” she said.

“First, it harms our tourism reputation – nobody wants that. Second, you can’t get away with it now.”

The reason, she explained, is the ubiquity of mobile phones and social media.

“Mobile phones are so widespread and social-media penetration is so deep, if you do something, how could nobody know? And once we know, how could we not enforce the law?" Law said.

She said the Travel Industry Authority would step up inspections during the May Day holiday period. She encouraged tourists to come forward if they experienced any problems.

“Any tourist who suspects forced shopping can complain to us – complain to the authority – and we will immediately handle it very seriously,” Law said.



Edited by Robert Kemp