3 Dec 2004

French Polynesia's tourism minister expects strong growth

12:50 pm on 3 December 2004

French Polynesia's tourism minister says he's optimistic that visitor revenue may increase to almost 690 million US dollars.

He says the figure is based on tourist numbers reaching at least 300,000 by 2007.

Last year, more than 212,000 visitors to the territory brought in 387 million US dollars.

The Tahitipresse news agency says the projected increase is based on Air Tahiti Nui starting two new routes to New York and Sydney.

French Polynesia is still seeking Approved Destination Status from Beijing, which would see an increase in the number of Chinese tourists.