BY LT. GOVERNOR DUKE AIONA – Last month’s visitor statistics indicate that arrivals are stabilizing and visitor spending is trending upward, which is an encouraging sign for Hawai‘i’s economy.
The fact that travelers are choosing Hawai‘i for their vacation is a reflection of the hard work and cooperative efforts between this Administration, private sector businesses and the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
The tourism outreach that has been undertaken by this Administration includes working with the airlines to increase airlift into our state and continued infrastructure improvements at our airports through the airports modernization plan.
It also includes the ability to attract conventioneers and incentive travelers from around the world, such as the Taiwan Nan Shan Insurance Company who, between September 1 and October 27, will bring an estimated 6,500 visitors to our islands on 15 charter flights.
Our Administration is continuing to develop relationships in emerging markets such as South Korea and China that will produce both short- and long-term rewards, while continuing to expand our relationships in Japan.
South Korea visitor arrivals will nearly double this year compared to last because of increased airline seats and visa waiver status and we are looking forward to Hawaiian Airlines’ flights from Korea, which will begin next year.
In addition, we can strengthen Hawai‘i’s economic base by tapping China’s growing tourism market, as well as developing opportunities and partnerships in clean energy and international trade.
This Administration is committed to building the relationships and overcoming the obstacles that will allow us to reap the benefits of China’s growing economy.