Previous Story
MVA may get more funds for promotion
|
Posted on Mar 22 2001
The House of Representatives has approved proposals to reprogram 100 percent of revenues generated from the aviation fuel tax to fund promotional activities of the Marianas Visitors Authority.
The lower chamber’s move came in light of criticisms on the apparent absence of effective marketing activities to promote the Northern Marianas as a tourist destination.
House Bill 12-359 will give the tourism industry the needed boost through additional funding for MVA’s marketing and promotional campaign, according to House Speaker Benigno R. Fitial.
Mr. Fitial authored HB 12-359 in response to calls from tourism industry players for additional government assistance in the revitalization of the travel sector to bring the CNMI in good competition with neighboring destinations.
The speaker’s proposal would allocate to the tourism body 100 percent of the aviation fuel tax beginning January 1, 2000, for the sole purpose of the development and improvement of the tourism industry in the CNMI.
The Strategic Economic Development Council’s Air Service Committee earlier recommended the allocation of additional funds to increase promotional activities in the CNMI’s emerging markets.
SEDC members said intensified promotions in Taipei and other emerging markets will be necessary to increase awareness among travelers on the water sports activities and other attractions in the Northern Marianas.
Airline officials said there may be a need for the CNMI government to intensify its promotional efforts in Taiwan after it disclosed discouraging statistics on tourist arrivals from Taipei in November, the second in a row. (EGA)
