Travel agencies not required to declare imminent closure, Timothy Chui

The Hong Kong Tourism Association said on Monday that people who book trips with travel agencies should not necessarily expect to hear in advance that the company is closing its doors.

His comments came after New Star Travel Co Ltd announced its closure last Friday (February 23), and the Travel Industry Authority (TIA) stated that it had received notice from the other party that it intended to stop operating the travel agency business as early as February 9.

The authority was questioned for reporting the news too late and issued another press release yesterday (February 25), stating that the relevant practices complied with the requirements of the Travel Industry Ordinance.

Hong Kong Tourism Association executive director Timothy Chui Ting-pong said on a radio program today that if a travel agency operates many businesses and declares closure, it is reasonable and appropriate to notify the public on its own.

However, he pointed out that travel agencies have many businesses, and some focusing on retail have connections with consumers, but some may only have to coordinate with wholesalers.

The tourism veteran believes there is room for discussion on how to notify the public.

Chui further stated that he believes that the TIA has already done what needed to be done and, so far, has not received any complaints, believing that the company has already contacted the consumers.

He added that he believes no tourist agency would want to close down their stores for no reason.

The tourism veteran urges consumers to only buy from licensed agencies, as they can receive the necessary protection under the Travel Industry Compensation Fund.