Tunisia Expected To Lose More Than $515 million In Tourism After Terrorist Attack
Tunisia is situated in the northern most part of Africa draws thousands of tourists from all over the world each year as the country’s beaches, hospitality and Mediterranean climate make it an idea destination for tourists to have a relaxing vacation. The country was shaken on the 26th of June by a terrorist attack that occurred at the Imperial Marhaba beach hotel in the tourist town of Sousse.
The 24 year old terrorist opened fire on unsuspecting tourists and killed 39 people before being gunned down by police outside the hotel. Tunisia also had another terrorist attack earlier this year when gunmen stormed the Bardo museum and killed 21 more people. These terrorist attacks have tarnished the image of Tunisia as a tranquil and tourist haven.
The country earlier $1.95 billion from the tourism industry in 2014 but these terrorist attacks have scared tourists away and the Tourism minister in Tunisia expects a loss of $515 million this year. In a statement, Tourism Minister Salma Loumi said “The attack had a great impact on the economy, the losses will be large”.
The government is doing its best to restore the faith of tourists by appointing 1,000 armed tourist police who will be stationed at popular tourist resorts and destinations to safeguard tourists from any future terrorist attacks. The government also plans to waive the visitor fee that it previously charged tourists in an effort to boost tourism.