Forecasts 20-30% jump in arrivals

STB forecasts 20-30% jump in visitor arrivals this year

Singapore could be seeing a jump of as much as 30 per cent in visitor arrivals this year.

In about two weeks, Universal Studios Singapore will open its doors to the public, which will add to the buzz surrounding the opening of Singapore's first integrated resort at Sentosa. And with Marina Bay Sands due to open in April, Singapore officials are optimistic about their outlook for the year.

According to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), visitor arrivals could hit between 11.5 million and 12.5 million this year - up by as much as 30 per cent from 2009. This will translate into tourism receipts of S$17.5-18.5 billion.

This compares to 9.7 million visitors in 2009, bringing in S$12.4 billion in revenues.

The forecasts appear to be at the low end by industry estimates, but officials are keeping cautious.

Aw Kah Peng, chief executive, Singapore Tourism Board said: "We hope industry leaders are very right because we would love for these numbers to be exceeded in every way.

"Yes, there is still a bit of uncertainty given the global situation, particularly as governments unwind assistance measures in the second half of this year. We will track this very closely and look at whether we need to revise our forecast."

STB is making an aggressive push to attract more tourists. It has launched a new brand strategy and interactive website to make it easier for visitors to book hotels, flights and tours and plan their trips to Singapore. An advertising campaign will begin on Saturday across key markets.

-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-