President of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades Simon Wong Ka-wo predicts a 10 percent year-on-year business growth during the upcoming Golden Week for the food and beverages industry, as Hong Kong is expected to record 8.76 million inbound and outbound trips.
As the National Day holiday approaches, the Hong Kong government projects that around 1.54 million mainland visitors will arrive during the eight-day break, representing an approximate 11 percent increase per day compared to last year.
With the holiday aligning closely with the Mid-Autumn Festival and lasting one day longer than last year, longer-staying tourists are likely to “eat at least three extra meals per additional overnight stay,” Wong commented.
He noted that attracting more long-distance mainland travelers from outside the Greater Bay Area could have a notably positive impact, especially if they extend their stay, and increased tourist numbers could significantly stimulate the industry.
The restaurant industry anticipates that the surge in visitors will boost business, particularly from long-distance travelers who are more likely to stay overnight. However, many locals might take advantage of the holiday by traveling abroad, which could offset some of the visitor traffic. Overall, they expect a modest 10 percent year-on-year increase in business.
The Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong foresees 1.5 million mainland visitors to arrive in Hong Kong during the National Day Golden Week. Including local residents and other visitors, a total of about 8.76 million people are expected to enter and exit Hong Kong within the period.
