Statistics and Census Service information indicates that the average Tourist Price Index (TPI) for the whole year of 2015 (138.39) decreased by 0.86 per cent year-on-year, the first annual decline recorded since the index was first published. The Price index of Accommodation dropped by 7.08 per cent year-on-year, while that of Food, Alcoholic Drinks and Tobacco; Entertainment and Cultural Activities; and Restaurant Services increased 4.53 per cent, 4.22 per cent and 4.02 per cent, respectively.

The TPI for the fourth quarter of 2015 (141.29) decreased by 3.03 per cent year-on-year, attributable to lower charges for hotel accommodation and the reduced prices of clothing. A notable decrease was observed in the price index of Accommodation (-10.34 per cent); Clothing and Footwear (-4.18 per cent); and Transport and Communications (-2.08 per cent). By contrast, the price index of Food; Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco; and Entertainment and Cultural Activities increased by 3.86 per cent and 2.89 per cent, respectively.

The TPI for the fourth quarter of 2015 increased by 7.48 per cent quarter-to-quarter. The price index of Accommodation and Clothing & Footwear rose by 25.19 per cent and 9.50 per cent, respectively, due to higher hotel room rates during the National Day holidays, the Macao Grand Prix and Christmas holidays, as well as the new arrival of winter clothing. Meanwhile, lower airfares to/from Southeast Asia drove down the price index of Transport and Communications by 0.60 per cent quarter-to-quarter.