SINGAPORE: Singapore raked in S$18.8 billion in
tourism receipts last year, the highest in ten
years.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said this is a 49
per cent increase from 2009, exceeding previous forecasts of
between S$17.5-18.5 billion.
STB said the high growth in tourism dollars is due
to higher spending per person, and more international visitors due
to positive economic sentiment and the opening of the two
Integrated Resorts.
Sightseeing and entertainment accounted for a fifth of the tourism
receipts, some S$4 billion and a 1,800 per cent jump from 2009. For
the first time, spending and gambling at the two Integrated Resorts
was also included into this component.
However, the STB was quick to add that growth was seen across the
sector.
Aw Kah Peng, Chief Executive of STB, said: "The two Integrated
Resorts were highlights, but we saw growth across every part of the
tourism sector. Spending in F&B grew, spending at the hotels
grew, spending at various sightseeing and attractions grew."
Singapore welcomed 11.9 million overseas visitors last year, led by
growth in the top five markets - Indonesia, China, Australia,
Malaysia and India.
This figure fell within STB's forecast of 11.5 to 12.5 million
visitors for 2011.
Hotel revenue also saw a jump of 21.8 per cent to reach S$1.9
billion.
With average room rates of S$212 a night, the Singapore Tourism
Board said a challenge for the industry is to raise service
standards, and ensure that customers get value for their
money.
One segment which did not do well however, was the cruise
industry.
Passenger numbers declined 11 per cent, largely due to two gaming
ships ceasing operations.
Ms Aw said: "Some of the cruises that were primarily focused on
gaming decided that it wasn't worth their while to do those cruises
anymore.
"I think as new entrants come into the market, existing ones will
then have to relook at what they are offering, and whether they
would reshape their business. Do something else, or introduce new
products."
While it declined to give projections for 2011, STB expects tourism
to continue growing this year, driven by the opening of new
attractions in the Integrated Resorts.
However, growth in the sector is not expected to match the pace set
last year, which was described as "exceptional".
- CNA/fa/ac