HK on track to meet tourist target with 33m visitors in first eight months

Hong Kong’s tourism chief Rosanna Law Shuk-pui expressed strong confidence on Monday that the city will achieve its full-year target of 49 million visitor arrivals, following a robust recovery in inbound tourism.

Official figures announced by Law show that Hong Kong welcomed over 33 million visitors in the first eight months of this year, representing a 12 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

The month of August alone saw 5.15 million arrivals, a significant 16 percent year-on-year growth.

Speaking at a tourism forum, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism attributed this positive trend to the collective efforts of stakeholders and workers across the tourism and related sectors.

She noted a shift in traveler behavior in the post-pandemic era, observing that purchasing luxury goods is no longer the primary motive for visiting Hong Kong. Instead, modern travelers are increasingly seeking unique and immersive experiences.

In response to this evolution, she said the government has introduced the "Development Blueprint for Hong Kong's Tourism Industry 2.0," which provides a strategic roadmap for reforming the industry.

A key focus of this plan is the implementation of policies that deeply integrate culture, sports, and tourism, said Law.

The government official also highlighted Hong Kong’s position as a "one-stop destination" capable of offering large-scale sports events, high-level cultural and artistic performances, alongside world-class shopping and dining.

The city’s vibrant and diverse experiences leave a lasting impression on visitors, she added.

Law pledged that the government will continue to work closely with all relevant industry stakeholders to maximize the economic potential of the cultural, sports, and tourism sectors, ensuring the positive momentum is sustained.

(Marco Lam)