HI HCR151

Create a task force within the Office of the Lieutenant Governor to focus on increasing tourism from China and Taiwan, comprised of representatives from the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Hawaii Tourism Asia, and members of the Chinese Community.

Address barriers to Chinese tourism including the lack of non-stop direct flights between China and Hawaii, which increases travel time by up to ten hours one way.

Develop relationships with government officials and private businesses in China and Taiwan to grow the tourism industry sector.

Educate and prepare Hawaii businesses and residents for Chinese and Taiwanese visitors, train appropriate personnel, and create partnerships with tourism education programs at Kapiolani Community College and University of Hawaii's School of Travel Industry Management.

Promote product sales in Chinese and Taiwanese markets to capitalize on the projected growth from 41 million outbound travelers in 2007 to 100 million by 2020, with visitors from these regions spending an average of $283 per person per day in Hawaii.