Two Hong Kong Travel Agencies and a Guide Lose Licenses Due to ‘Compelled Shopping’ Allegations

Hong Kong’s tourism authority has revoked the licenses of two travel agencies and a guide due to failures in preventing “coerced shopping” for mainland Chinese tour groups. Go Go Ming Travel Services, Grandee Travel Company, and guide Sun Kwun-ying had their licenses revoked after it was discovered that they did not take adequate steps to protect tourists from pressure to make purchases. The authority emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards such practices that harm Hong Kong’s tourism reputation. Investigations revealed incidents from February and April where visitors were subjected to these practices, including threats made by the guide. The authority plans to enhance inspections ahead of the mainland’s National Day golden week holiday, anticipating a surge in visitors.