The three-year "Cultural and Heritage Sites Local Tour Incentive Scheme" was launched on Thursday until November 30 next year. Eligible travel agents may apply for up to HK$400 cash incentives for each participant of a cultural and heritage sites local tour it serves.

There are two versions of cash incentives, depending on the itinerary arrangements. The government has earmarked a total financial commitment of HK$600 million for the Scheme in the 2022-23 Budget.

In respect of application for the basic version, the itinerary must be received by licensed tourist guides or tour escorts and cover at least two cultural and heritage sites recognised under the Scheme, as well as transportation, meal and insurance arrangements meeting the Scheme's requirements.

To apply for the advanced version of incentives, the relevant itinerary must also cover at least one cultural and heritage site and one tourist experience activity comprising local cultural and heritage elements recognised under the Scheme, and be received by licensed tourist guides who have completed cultural and heritage training courses recognised by the Scheme.

To complement the application criteria of the advanced version of cash incentives, the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong will collaborate with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to organise free docent training courses for tourist guides.