Aya Matsumoto vice president of Pacific Eagle Enterprises Inc.; Nick Nishikawa general manager of the Hyatt Regency Saipan; and Misako Kamata, owner of Kinpanchi Restaurant were, among the corporate leaders who attended the Marianas Visitors Authority’s presentation at the Saipan World Resort yesterday regarding the status and the future of the local tourism industry.
Matsumoto expects 2009 to be a challenging year for them because nobody knows how the federalization of the local immigration system will impact the islands’ economy.
Asked about MVA’s not-so optimistic report, she said, “I still hope. It sounds like we can still continue.”
The Japanese market, she said, can still stabilize which gives her the confidence to continue doing business on Saipan.
Matsumoto said she is not thinking of changing her business plans.
She said she agrees with MVA Chairman with Jerry Tan that air seats are important in enhancing local tourism.
Businesses and the government, she added, have to cooperate to revive tourism.
Nishikawa said MVA’s presentation was realistic.
Even though the report and forecast seemed pessimistic, he said, “We have to be optimistic always and be proactive in getting through these difficult times.”
Kamata said she shares MVA’s concerns, but declined to comment on its 2009 projections.
