Representatives of the private sector in Northern Ireland tourism have issued their first "manifesto" for the industry.
The Northern Ireland Tourist Industry Confederation (NITIC) has outlined what it sees as tourism's contribution to the North's economy and reputation.
It also outlines how this could be enhanced if certain problems it has identified are addressed.
Mr Denis Galway, the NITIC chairman, said the problems centred on "the burden of excessive operating costs and charges which are passed on to the consumer the continuing issue of access to Northern Ireland."
He claimed that tourism contributed £522 million, both directly and indirectly, to the economy, generates at least £207 million in tax revenue and sustains an estimated 48,000 jobs in the tourism and leisure sector.
Despite adverse market conditions, tourist numbers have grown by 12 per cent in the last five years, and tourism is projected to grow by an annual 8 per cent between 2002 and 2005.
The manifesto says the sector is "burdened by excessive operating costs and charges".
"These costs are either passed on to the consumer, diluting the perceived value for money and price competitiveness of the Northern Ireland tourism product, or absorbed by individual tourism businesses, thereby restricting margins and reinvestment in improving product and service."
Welcoming the manifesto, Mr John Doran, of Belfast City Airport, said: "Providing the appropriate infrastructure to encourage and facilitate additional tourism will unlock sustainable revenue streams and create greater economic prosperity."
Mr Ian Morrow, deputy chief executive of the North's Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "Tourism impacts at every level of business and therefore must be at the top of any economic agenda."