Lawmakers want Hong Kong to become sports tourism hub

Lawmakers on Friday suggested the SAR government should bring more large-scale sporting events to Hong Kong in a bid to promote Hong Kong as a sports tourism hub

Sports sector lawmaker Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, tourism sector lawmaker Perry Yiu Pak-leung and DAB lawmaker Vincent Cheng Wing-shun told a press conference today that more travelers are rediscovering the joy of outdoor activities and incorporating sports into their journey, while many nearby regions are making efforts to integrate sport elements into their tourism products, aiming to become a destination for sports tourism.

They cited a survey indicating that after the Covid pandemic, global spending on experiential tourism and recreational activities has surged by 65%, surpassing the 12% growth in shopping expenditure during the same period.

The lawmakers called on the government to establish a task force focused on promoting sports tourism, and to provide incentives for the business sector to design tourism products providing immersive experiences.

Hong Kong should also collaborate with other Greater Bay Area cities in hosting international mega sporting events, as the SAR lacks large venues, said the lawmakers.

Meanwhile, Cheng, who serves as vice-chairman of the government's Major Sports Events Committee, said authorities should consider tourism elements more when granting funding to sporting events, encouraging organizers to incorporate more tourism aspects in their activities.