Russia's Economy Ministry Questions Tour Operator 'Fantasy Way' Over Closure Notice

Russia's Ministry of Economic Development has sent an official request to tour operator "Fantasy Way" seeking details about its plans after the company announced it was closing, the ministry's press service told RIA Novosti.

According to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), OOO "Fantasy Way" officially informed tourists, customers and partners on September 14 that it could not fulfill its obligations under tour product contracts. Preliminary estimates put the company's obligations to tourists at 600,000-700,000 rubles.

The ministry said it sent the request to clarify information and the company's future plans for tour operator activity. Until a response is received and all information is analyzed, any conclusions would be premature, the press service said, adding that the situation is under the ministry's control.

Any decision on removing OOO "Fantasy Way" from the Unified Federal Register of Tour Operators will be made in accordance with established procedure and current legislation, the press service said. According to ATOR, "Fantasy Way" had operated in the domestic tourism market since 1998, focusing mainly on excursion and custom tours around Russia.