Mainland tourists revitalize Hong Kong's retail sector ahead of Lunar New Year

Mainland tourists are flocking to lesser-known hotspots in Hong Kong, injecting life into local businesses as the multiple-entry individual visit scheme for Shenzhen residents resumed in December. 

According to statistics from the National Immigration Administration, 299,000 visas were issued between December 1 and January 14, with around 1.04 million Shenzhen residents visiting Hong Kong during this period.

Cai, a mainland tourist, expressed her enthusiasm for the convenience brought by the renewed scheme. 

"It feels like going to my neighbor’s house. I mainly buy shampoo, shower gel, and some Chinese medicine," she said.

Another tourist, Lu, said her suitcase was filled with snacks from Hong Kong. 

"In the past, I could only come once a week, but now we can come whenever we want," she said.
Lawmaker Edward Leung Hei highlighted the positive impact of the multiple-entry permit on the retail industry, calling it a lifeline for many businesses. 

"Hong Kong people's consumption in the mainland has already greatly stimulated mainland cities. 
With more Greater Bay Area visitors coming to Hong Kong, we can expect a significant boost to our economy," he said.

Leung also said that despite higher prices for some items in Hong Kong, tourists prefer to shop there due to the reliable quality. 

He urged the government to negotiate with the mainland to increase the duty-free allowance for visitors, allowing them to purchase even more during their trips.

(Marcus Lum)