Hawai`i Tourism Leaders Gather

As part of his remarks to the more than 500 attendees at the Hawai`i Convention Center, Lt. Governor Aiona noted that visitor arrivals and spending were down through June.

The Lt. Governor also reminded industry leaders of the success they have enjoyed over the past three years, adding that their ability to continue working together will be critical to addressing challenges of the industry that generates $11 billion annually for the local economy.

“When working together, we can create opportunities in the face of adversity,” Lt. Governor Aiona said. “And there are many opportunities out there, right now, for us to work on together.”

Lt. Governor Aiona added that the foundation of the local economy is strong. According to Forbes Magazine, for example, Hawai`i moved up ten spots over the last year to 27th best state in the nation for business.

“In 2006, we ranked 42nd, so obviously we have made significant progress,” Lt. Governor Aiona said to sustained applause. “And we have much more work to do. The foundation of the visitor industry is strong as well. We have weathered tourism cycles in the past, and it is up to us, collectively, to work to create more opportunities now and into the future.”

The Lt. Governor also pointed to investments the state is making in infrastructure improvements, such as the $2.3 billion Airport Modernization Plan and the $618 million Harbors Modernization Plan.