Zuji Hong Kong goes bancrupt
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Hong Kong-headquartered online travel agent Zuji collapsed on Friday owing HK$250,000 (US$32,000) to customers awaiting refunds. The firm – which was one of the first online travel agencies in Asia Pacific– failed to have its IATA agency licence renewed due to overdue payments to airlines for tickets sold to travellers.
“Zuji is no longer a licensed travel agent and cannot continue to operate travel agent business in Hong Kong, but the company has the responsibility to properly handle all booked travel services,” said a spokesperson from Hong Kong’s Commerce and Economic Development Bureau.
Zuji closed its business in Singapore in late November and shut down its website. But the company has said it will continue operations in Hong Kong. It has announced “technical difficulties” in refunding customers for the time being.
The company has not explained how it will be able to continue operations without an IATA licence.
Questions & Answers
Q.What specifically caused Zuji Hong Kong to collapse?
What specifically caused Zuji Hong Kong to collapse?
The firm failed to renew its IATA agency licence because of overdue payments to airlines. This meant Zuji was no longer permitted to operate as a licensed travel agent in Hong Kong.
Q.How much money is Zuji Hong Kong reported to owe to customers?
How much money is Zuji Hong Kong reported to owe to customers?
Zuji Hong Kong owes HK$250,000 (US$32,000) to customers who are currently awaiting refunds. The company has cited 'technical difficulties' in processing these refunds.
Q.Has Zuji previously ceased operations in other regions?
Has Zuji previously ceased operations in other regions?
Yes, Zuji closed its business in Singapore in late November, shutting down its website there. However, it had stated it would continue operations in Hong Kong.
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