Four French tourism groups warned on Oct. 18 that weekend riots could bring trip cancellations and threaten local businesses and jobs, adding the industry to concerns about the unrest’s economic toll.
ADN Tourisme and three other tourism groups issued the warning. They cited closures, interrupted travel and weakened visitor confidence as risks. The groups raised the possibility of cancellations but reported no total for canceled trips or lost trade.
Images of looting and street violence seen abroad were worrying France’s tourism industry, France 24 reported. The concern was whether the unrest would deter foreign visitors; the report did not establish that travelers had canceled trips.
The riots followed demonstrations over rising prices. Paris police ordered an overnight curfew in selected central districts on Oct. 19, a day after the tourism groups’ statement. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu directed prefects to use limited curfews in affected areas and ruled out restrictions across all of Paris.
Retailers have also reported damage. CCI Hérault’s president said about 50 businesses in Montpellier were damaged, including 14 that were looted.
An exceptional business council with business and financial groups is planned for Tuesday, Oct. 20.
