Information from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) indicated that the Tourist Price Index (TPI) for the fourth quarter of 2011 increased by 18.9% year-on-year to 128.1; the increment was caused by dearer accommodation prices. Price index of Accommodation (+35.0%), Restaurant Services (+19.2%) and Miscellaneous Goods (+14.5%) recorded notable year-on-year increase on account of increasing hotel room rate, higher restaurant charges and dearer jewellery prices.

TPI for the fourth quarter of 2011 rose by 9.8% quarter-to-quarter, of which hotel room rate soared substantially during the National Day, the Macao Grand Prix and Christmas holidays, driving up the price index of Accommodation by 30.4%. At the same time, price index of Entertainment & Cultural Activities; and Clothing & Footwear increased by 7.0% and 6.8% respectively quarter-to-quarter.

The average TPI (117.2) for the whole year of 2011 increased by 15.5% from 2010, with marked increase being observed in the index of Accommodation (+35.7%); Miscellaneous Goods (+19.8%); Restaurant Services (+11.7%); and Food, Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco (+11.5%).

The 2009/2010-based TPI reflects the price changes of goods and services purchased by visitors. Sections of TPI goods and services are based on the consumption pattern of visitors, namely Food, Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco; Clothing & Footwear; Accommodation; Restaurant Services; Transport & Communications; Medicine & Personal Goods; Entertainment & Cultural Activities; and Miscellaneous Goods.