'Super March' boosts economy as HK welcomes 3.4 million visitors: Paul Chan

Hong Kong's "Super March" event series has successfully boosted tourism and revitalized the local economy, with the city welcoming over 3.4 million visitors this month as of March 21 -- a 12 percent year-on-year increase that included about 960,000 overseas visitors, said Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po.

In his Sunday blog post, Chan highlighted the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament at the new Kai Tak Sports Park from March 28-30 as a major success. 

The event is expected to attract a record-breaking 140,000 spectators, with all 60 corporate boxes fully booked.

"The Sevens brought March's excitement to new heights," Chan wrote,  noting that business executives attending concurrent financial events had eagerly made time to enjoy the matches.

The hospitality sector benefited significantly, with hotel occupancy in prime districts nearing 90 percent.
Retailers reported increased customer traffic, while bars and restaurants in Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, and Wan Chai were filled with enthusiastic fans. 

"Shared beers and cheers create connections - this energy captures Hong Kong's unique appeal," Chan said.

Cultural events like Art Basel Hong Kong featured 240 galleries from 42 countries, including 20 first-time exhibitors, while now-concluded ComplexCon attracted 35,000 attendees, a 16 percent year-on-year increase and HK$87 million in sales.

Chan said many Art Basel galleries reported strong sales, with some artworks selling out during previews, and organizers expect this year's attendance to exceed last year's 75,000 visitors.

The government-hosted "Wealth for Good" summit and other financial conferences also drew thousands of international participants.

Chan noted growing investor confidence, reflected in rebounding stock markets and increased IPO activity. 

"Many told me Hong Kong has regained its vitality," he said, crediting China's technological advances and the city's improved event programming.

Chan said the government will continue developing Hong Kong’s major event economy, with a focus on high-value business tourism and enhanced visitor experiences to maintain the positive momentum.

(Ayra Wang)