Four destination management companies that specialise in conferences have been awarded the Malta Tourism Authority's Quality Assured seal.

Tourism Parliamentary Secretary Mario de Marco said the achievement signalled the excellent level of service offered by the companies.

Some 22 destination management companies obtained the MTA's seal since the scheme started two years ago.

To obtain the quality assured seal, such companies must comply with a number of criteria, such as having general liability insurance, enjoy financial stability, be able to respond to clients' requests efficiently and are recommended by clients, suppliers and staff. The companies are audited on an annual basis in order to retain their quality seal.

In 2009, the MTA allocated funds for each quality assured company to partially cover the expenses for an overseas marketing initiative, such as sales calls or advertising. This will be repeated this year.

Dr de Marco said conference and incentive travel was an important element of the tourism industry, accounting for 3.8 per cent of tourist arrivals in 2009 and generating higher per capita expenditure than leisure tourists.

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