Business as usual: Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip says there has been little impact on the tourism industry from the bird flu outbreaks in the region.

There has been little impact on the tourism industry from the bird flu outbreaks in the region, and large numbers of visitors from all over the world are still flocking to Hong Kong, Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip says.

Speaking to the media after attending the 10th International Symposium on Vessel Traffic Services, Mr Ip said our hotels have an occupancy rate of over 80%, and all travel-related industries including the airlines, travel agents are doing very well.

"So I think the impact so far has been minimal," he said.

In the long term, Mr Ip said it depends on whether the bird flu is brought under control or not.