BUSINESS TRAVEL expenses are expected to rise only 2%-3% in 2000, the smallest annual increase in over five years, according to American Express.
The relatively small increase is attributed to the rising use of negotiated discounts by corporations and the growing use of restricted air fares by business travellers.
The small increase for 2000 compares to a 7%increase at the beginning of 1999.
However, Amex claims that hotel bills will continue to rise for business travellers during the same time scale.
Corporate rates in the largest 25 UScities are expected to rise 7% next year, to about $188 per night.
The increase is 2% higher than 1999.