The government should hand out consumption vouchers to boost local consumption amid the current sluggish economy, Hong Kong’s top scorers in the Diploma of Secondary Education examinations (DSE) said, while expressing optimism toward the city's economic outlook.
Their suggestions come amid rising concerns over a wave of business closures and shifting consumer habits in the city, with many residents opting to spend across the border in mainland China.
Consumption vouchers to counter sluggish spending
Wang Yuen-ting, a top scorer from Hong Kong Taoist Association Tang Hin Memorial Secondary School who commuted daily from Shenzhen, noted that the trend of Hongkongers favoring mainland services for their affordability and quality has contributed to local retail struggles.
“If government finances allow, distributing consumption vouchers could encourage spending in Hong Kong,” said Wang.
Wang Yuen-ting, a top scorer from Hong Kong Taoist Association Tang Hin Memorial Secondary School
Support for small businesses, creative industries
Ian Yau Pok-yan, a top scorer from Cheung Chuk Shan College, suggested subsidies or other means to support small businesses, while also advocating for growth in creative industries such as concerts and entertainment to attract spending.
Ian Yau Pok-yan, a top scorer from Cheung Chuk Shan College
The top scorers also remained optimistic about the city's economic outlook. Norris Kung Yan-long, one of the three super top scorers from St. Paul’s Co-educational College bound for the University of Cambridge to study economics, framed Hong Kong’s challenges as part of a cyclical transition.
“With an increasing pool of talent, the city’s economy will adapt,” he said, referencing macroeconomic principles.
Three super top scorers from St. Paul's Co-educational College
Tourism, mega events as economic drivers
The role of tourism and the mega events economy also featured prominently in students’ proposals, while some of them opined that tourists are keen on local specialty food and culture.
Caron Fung Yuet-kiu of The True Light School of Hong Kong in Tai Hang pointed to the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park as a potential draw for international performers and sports events, which could revitalize the hospitality and retail sectors.
Top scorer Caron Fung Yuet-kiu of The True Light School of Hong Kong
Upskilling, AI to stay competitive
Fung also emphasized upskilling, particularly in artificial intelligence, to maintain competitiveness amid industry shifts.
“Economic cycles have downturns, but they also recover. Diversifying into new sectors will create opportunities,” she said.
La Salle College super top scorer Anson Chan Pok-hin
La Salle College super top scorer Anson Chan Pok-hin highlighted the rebounding demand for leisure activities after the pandemic, suggesting that new venues could host football matches and concerts to boost both tourism and local participation.
Viann Ho Wai-ying, a top scorer from Heep Yunn School
Meanwhile, Viann Ho Wai-ying, a top scorer from Heep Yunn School, argued for leveraging Hong Kong’s cultural uniqueness to attract visitors. “Tourists aren’t necessarily drawn to glossy souvenirs – things like fish balls and siu mai are already iconic,” she said.
(Ayra Wang)
Read more related articles:
From hard work to excellence: 16 students shine in DSE results
DSE 'ultimate top scorer' thanks teachers and classmates for support
DSE top scorer at True Light School of Hong Kong sets sights on environmental studies aboard
