Ministers to discuss effects of economic crisis on tourism sector

Ministers responsible for the tourism sector in Commonwealth countries will meet in London on 12 November 2008, to discuss ways of addressing challenges facing the sector due to the current economic crisis.

Ministers will also explore ways on how Governments can ensure that the benefits of tourism are used to reduce poverty.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Ransford Smith said that the association considers the tourism sector as key to creating jobs and contributing to economic growth and development.

“From the staff who work in hotels, travel industry, as tour guides and in photography to those who make handicrafts, and those in horticulture…all of them benefit from tourism. There are so many spin off effects of tourism that put money in the pockets of many Commonwealth citizens. Infact, tourism accounts for as much as 40 percent of GDP in several Commonwealth countries. We believe the meeting will give ministers an opportunity to discuss ways of strengthening this sector,” Mr Smith said.

The theme of the meeting is “Current Global Challenges and Implications for Tourism Growth.”

In addition, ministers will discuss the activities of the Commonwealth Tourism Center, based in Malaysia, since its establishment in 2006.

The Commonwealth Secretariat provides assistance to member countries to enhance their competitiveness in the tourism sector. Technical assistance is given in policy formulation and institutional capacity building.

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• Commonwealth Tourism Centre