Longines HK International Races the 'perfect example' of horse racing tourism potential: deputy financial chief

The government is collaborating with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) to design engaging programs and activities that will allow tourists to experience and participate in the vibrant horse racing culture of the city, according to Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun.

Speaking at the 2024 LONGINES Hong Kong International Races Gala Dinner on Friday (Dec 6), Wong said there is huge potential in combining Hong Kong's strengths as a leader in horse racing and as a top tourist destination. 

He stated that promoting horse racing tourism represents a synergistic effect and "one plus one will indeed be greater than two".

"The Longines Hong Kong International Races has proven to be the perfect example of the huge potential of horse racing tourism," Wong said.

He noted that hundreds of overseas visitors have come to the city specifically to take part in the annual racing extravaganza, and citing reports that some have spent over half a million on luxury goods in Hong Kong.

"It is not about money or gambling," Wong said he agreed wholeheartedly with the statement noted by Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, the chief executive of HKJC, "It is about horse racing."

The annual Longines HK International Races will be held on Sunday (Dec 8).
 

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