Singapore's tourism sector facing biggest challenge since SARS: STB

With tourism arrivals and receipts for 2020 poised to take a significant hit as a result of the COVID-2019, Singapore's tourism sector is facing its biggest challenge since SARS in 2003, according to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). 

"But unlike SARS, we are now better prepared and more resilient," said Chief Executive of STB Keith Tan.

Photo courtesy: unsplash
Photo courtesy: unsplash

In a press statement, Tan said the local tourism economy is aiming for a strong recovery on the back of four years of consecutive growth. In addition, there has been a compelling pipeline of tourism investments, and efforts to build new capabilities. "Our destination remains attractive, we have a strong pipeline of tourism products, and our market portfolio is diverse,” he said.

Jewel Changi Airport. Photo courtesy: unsplash
Jewel Changi Airport. Photo courtesy: unsplash

The Singapore government had also formed a public-private sector Tourism Recovery Action Task Force (TRAC) to lay out the plans for recovery and future growth.

Comprising tourism leaders from both the private and public sectors, TRAC will map out recovery strategies and plans for tourism in Singapore. Their work will include identifying opportunities arising from the COVID-2019 crisis, driving and implementing measures to instill confidence in Singapore’s tourism establishments, as well as co-creating and initiating recovery plans.

The COVID-2019 has had a substantial impact on visitor arrivals, especially from China, which accounts for around 20 per cent of international visitor arrivals. Visitor arrivals from STB’s other key source markets are also expected to fall due to lower travel confidence globally.

Based on the current situation, STB expects visitor arrivals this year to fall by about 25 to 30 per cent.

Author
CtoI News Desk
CtoI News Desk – CtoI

Singapore-headquartered online media company targeting Indian Diaspora across Singapore, US, UK, UAE and India. Connected to India covers developments around NRIs. Covers arts, political, sports, finance, entrepreneurship, business, movies, dramas, entertainment and other news for Indians living worldwide.

Comments
Poll

Which team do you think will win IPL 2023?

  • Chennai Super Kings
  • Royal Challengers Bangalore
  • Mumbai Indians
  • Gujarat Titans
  • Kolkata Knight Riders
  • Delhi Capitals
  • Sunrisers Hyderabad
  • Lucknow Super Giants
  • Royal Challengers Bangalore
  • Punjab Kings
Answer
Write your story

Contribute an Article

Learn more