John Lee vows to turn Hong Kong into leading center for arts and cultural exchange

The government is actively promoting cultural and arts development to position Hong Kong as a hub for cultural exchange between mainland China and the West, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said.

Speaking at the Hong Kong Culture and Arts Sector Celebration for National Day, Lee highlighted the city’s significant progress in recent years, noting that 12 arts projects have received funding from the China National Arts Fund 2025.

These projects cover a wide range of areas, including large-scale theatrical productions, promotional initiatives, and arts talent development — achievements Lee described as “encouraging milestones” for the city’s cultural sector.

He added that the government will continue developing Hong Kong into a premier arts trading hub by promoting diversified growth in the West Kowloon Cultural District, the broader cultural and creative industries, and other flagship arts and cultural projects.

The authorities will also assess the current and future manpower needs of the sector under the Blueprint for Arts, Culture and Creative Industries Development.

Planned measures include implementing new talent training strategies and providing more internship and training opportunities for young people aspiring to enter the cultural and creative fields, Lee said.