Critical Comparison of Tourism Policies

Hong Kong - Singapore

Background
1960s economies of the two cities started to boom
Evolved into the major financial centers in Asia 2007 both in Top 3 of the most competitive sate (International Institute for Management Development) Comparison of their policies:
Expanding the Horizon (Hong Kong)
Tourism 21 (Singapore)

Similarities
Nature of the destination
British colonies Cultural experience of East meets West

Stage of development
Rapid increase in tourist arrivals (1979-2007) Well developed infrastructure (airports, transportation,..)

General strategic approach

Proactive approach to develop & manage the industry Both governments have recognized the economic importance of tourism

Singapore teaches..
Attitudinal aspect
Recognition and proactive support from government to the tourism industry Visionary leadership instead of reactiveness

Eagerness to learn

Strategic aspect
Experiences in being a hub in ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) Providing more subsidies to private sector Liberalizing the aviation policy further

Hong Kong teaches..

Attitudinal aspect
How to stimulate the private sectors interest in tourism development

To be more market driven, so that the private sector can be more resilient to challenges

Strategic aspect
Experiences in dealing with the Chinese outbound market try to understand better the huge, diversified source market

Critique in form of a personal reflection

... to be continued!