HOME>
Global News >
France ploughs in £16bn to save ‘crown jewel’ of tourism

France ploughs in £16bn to save ‘crown jewel’ of tourism

Publish Time：2020-05-15 10:56:25Source：metro.news

【Introduction】：IT IS the world’s most visited country, attracting nearly 90million foreign tourists last year.

IT IS the world’s most visited country, attracting nearly 90million foreign tourists last year.

But with 95 per cent of hotels shut amid a virus lockdown, France has had to commit £16billion to save the tourism sector that makes up eight per cent of its economy.

‘Tourism is facing what is probably its worst challenge in modern history,’ said prime minister Edouard Philippe (pictured).

‘Because tourism is one of the crown jewels of the French economy, rescuing it is a national priority.’

The main goal will be to avoid bankruptcies and job cuts. Hotels whose workers are furloughed will continue to be reimbursed for 70 per cent of their wage bills until at least September.

Meanwhile, restaurants in ‘green zones’ where the virus is not circulating widely are expected to be allowed to reopen on June 2.

That would not allow a revival of the dining scene in ‘red zone’ Paris but Mr Philippe said the traditional summer getaway should be able to go ahead.

‘We must set a goal, and widen our horizons,’ he told reporters. ‘The French will be able to holiday in France in July and August.’

Related Information