China News Service, June 29, according to the Australian website compilation report, as the Australian travel ban continues, Sydney Chinatown souvenir shop and restaurant owners are struggling in the absence of tourists. Some businesses said that this historic block is facing an uncertain future.
William Poh (William Poh, transliteration) came to Australia from Singapore in 1973, his souvenir shop is located in the once bustling Sydney Chinatown commercial center Haymarket. The entrance of the shop is full of koala and kangaroo toys. "Our performance has fallen by 80%." The 74-year-old said, "Duty-free shops rely on tourists. We can't survive without tourists. At night, Dixon Street is very quiet, and even few people move around. This is very difficult. Period."
In order to control the outbreak, Australia closed its border to Chinese tourists in February. "Most of our tourists come from China. I have three business partners. They are all very young, but they are worried about the future." William Po said, "Business is getting worse, we need help, we need government support To help us survive."
Asther Lam immigrated to Australia from Hong Kong in 1989 and is the owner of Dixon Street's food mall. He also said that his income is decreasing. "Currently our vacancy rate is about 70%. This is the most empty time in 29 years and the situation is very bad."
It is understood that Sydney Chinatown, as Australia's largest Chinatown and food street, receives 2.6 million tourists each year. (Noy)