Free Republic

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is forecasting 1.7 percent growth in Hawaii's gross state product for 2002 and significant growth in tourism and new jobs for 2003. "The forecast reflects Hawaii's continuing recovery from the effects of last year's national recession and the devastating effects of Sept. 11 on the travel industry," said DBEDT Director Seiji Naya. "We have made up much of those losses this year and should complete that recovery in 2003 as long as the U.S. economy remains on track." Visitor arrivals are expected to increase 3.5 percent by year's end. Gains this year...