According to the latest Welsh tourism barometer, 2022 visitor volume is still down on pre-pandemic levels.
Market confidence is lower in Wales than the rest of the UK, with 7% fewer businesses expecting an increase in customer numbers and businesses unable to fill a majority of their available capacity.
Commenting, Welsh Conservative Shadow Tourism Minister, Tom Giffard MS said:
“The outlook for Welsh tourism, according to the latest data, is grim. Market expectations for the sector are lower for Wales than for the rest of the UK despite Wales already struggling to reach pre-pandemic levels of footfall.
“What’s worse is that the situation can only worsen given the Labour Government’s plan to slap a tourism tax on the industry here in Wales and to discourage self-catering accommodation at every opportunity.
“The tourism industry desperately needs a supportive government in Cardiff Bay that works to enhance Wales’ position as an attractive destination, but it is clear that we’re not getting that from Labour.”