A new independent report carried out on behalf of the States of Guernsey has uncovered the "notable economic potential" of the Channel Island's medical tourism industry.

Oxford Economics is behind the study, which was commissioned to provide a "third-party" outlook on the island's current economic profile and opportunities for future growth.

The report said cosmetic surgery provided one of the "strongest opportunities" for growth in the medical tourism sector, which applied to both domestic and external markets.

A reported VAT increase on aesthetic procedures in the UK could benefit inbound medical tourism, while Guernsey may also be able to look towards attracting European residents.

The report said: "To attract appropriate higher-income consumers, the medical tourism sector should probably be sold in tandem with Guernsey's existing core brand image - premium quality, skilled professional labour and relaxed, picturesque surroundings.

"Unless capacity can be significantly expanded, Guernsey probably needs to treat medical tourism as a niche sector in order to identify true specialisms and concentrate on providing key services to a higher standard than elsewhere."

Oxford Economics found other areas that could drive up tourism, which included upmarket short breaks; cultural tourism; and the "bright" medium-term potential of eco-tourism.

Details: www.gov.gg

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