The SLHTA is expressing concern about how the increase in the departure tax will affect the tourism industry. President, Sanovnik Destang, says the feedback from the markets is that it is bad timing for the 73 dollar tax increase. Destang says many recent global events have impacted St Lucia’s key tourism source markets and have therefore hurt tourism. He says it is not the time for St Lucia to become a more expensive destination. Economic Affairs Minister, Guy Joseph, says he understands why the SLHTA would raise concern but, he says the government will put in place an incentives package and make St Lucia a more attractive place to visit. He is asking that the SLHTA and other organizations work with the government as they seek to implement policies that will transform the economy of St Lucia.
