EditorialStamp out coercive shopping tours to uphold Hong Kong’s reputation
Low-cost tours have proved difficult to eradicate but measures such as random inspections and harsher penalties could be considered
One industry representative called it an isolated incident that did not signal a return to what used to be a common practice. However, a consultant for an industry trade union said the trend is rampant. It is of concern that such cases can still occur years after the government set up a statutory authority to tighten regulation of the industry.
The investigation into the latest incident found the guide had made inappropriate remarks to visitors and threatened that those who did not make purchases would have to pay the difference in the tour price. It said the agency’s inaction and the guide’s remarks had effectively coerced tourists into shopping and were a serious breach of licensing conditions.
Publicity of such incidents in the past went viral on mainland social media, which may have contributed to a drop-off in tour patronage. Hong Kong cannot afford such reputational damage to a key industry. Low-cost tours have proved difficult to eradicate, with cost-recovery tours attracting little interest, industry sources say. The question is whether guides persuade visitors to shop with skilful salesmanship or resort to hardline tactics.
Tourism industry leaders agree that unreasonably low prices offered to some mainland Chinese tourist groups visiting Hong Kong are again a major factor behind coerced shopping. Authorities have been urged to step up random inspections during the coming Labour Day “golden week” holiday.