Information from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) indicated that the Tourist Price Index (TPI) for the first quarter of 2015 increased by 1.51% year-on-year to 146.19, attributable to rising charges for restaurant services, as well as dearer prices of handbags and local food products. Notable increase was observed in the price index of Restaurant Services (+7.86%); Clothing & Footwear (+5.49%); and Entertainment & Cultural Activities (+5.18%). On the contrary, price index of Hotel Accommodation decreased by 4.33% year-on-year due to lower room rates for three- and four-star hotels.

In comparison with the fourth quarter of 2014, TPI for the first quarter of 2015 increased by 0.33%. Price index of Accommodation and Entertainment & Cultural Activities rose by 3.77% and 2.88% respectively quarter-to-quarter; meanwhile, seasonal sale of handbags and women’s winter clothing pushed down the price index of Clothing & Footwear by 7.81%.

The average TPI for the last four quarters ended the first quarter of 2015 increased by 3.63% from the previous period, with marked increase being observed in the price index of Restaurant Services (+7.42%); Clothing & Footwear (+6.41%); Food, Alcoholic Drinks & Tobacco (+4.78%); and Entertainment & Cultural Activities (+4.65%).

TPI reflects the price change of goods and services purchased by visitors. Sections of TPI goods and services are selected according to 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.