Hong Kong Shops Charged with Trapping Tourists

Tourists from mainland China during the May Golden Week holiday period have complained of being overcharged and pressured to buy while in Hong Kong, according to Chinese news reports.

“Mainland tourists are pressured to spend on arrival in Hong Kong,” said Ann Yu, chairwoman of Hong Kong Tourist Guides Association. “Some tour groups were taken to between six to seven shops in a space of a three-day shopping trip.

“Apart from being charged higher hotel rates, they are encouraged to buy at inflated prices during shopping trips. Tactics include delaying trips back to their hotel for lunch. In the worst case scenario, shopkeepers close their shops to trap tourists,” added Mrs. Yu.

The Inland Travel Association reported mainland tour groups to Hong Kong dropped by up to 30 percent, compared to the same period last year. Tour guides claim the drop is due to tourists being victimized during shopping trips.

Since Hong Kong reverted to Chinese rule in 1997 and easing of cross-border travel restrictions, mainland tourists account for more than half of its 20 million annual visitors.