Peter Lam, Fred Ma appointed to top roles in tourism, trade

Wallis Wang and Jamie Liu

Peter Lam Kin-ngok, chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, has been appointed to lead the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the government announced. His term will be for three years.

Former secretary for commerce and economic development Frederick Ma Si-hang will succeed Lam as HKTDC chairman. His term is two years.

Lam, 67, will succeed Pang Yiu-kai and serve as chairman from April 1 this year to March 31, 2028, according to the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau.

In addition, new members Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung, Nikki Ng Mien-hua, and Melissa Kaye Pang will join the HKTB from April 1 to March 31, 2027.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui highlighted Lam's extensive experience in promoting tourism, noting his tenure as HKTB chairman from 2013 to 2019.

"With his diverse experiences in business management and public services, along with a strong vision, Dr Lam is the best candidate to lead the HKTB and the tourism sector of Hong Kong to reach new heights," Law said.

She expressed confidence that under Lam's leadership, the board will enhance its global promotion of Hong Kong, inviting visitors to enjoy its unique offerings.

Lam said he was honored by the appointment and committed to advocating for the expansion of the multi-entry scheme for mainland tourists.

He aims to promote Hong Kong as a key destination for multi-destination tourism.

Ma, 72, will serve from June 1 this year to May 31, 2027. He is currently the nonexecutive chairman of FWD Group and a member of the Chief Executive's Council of Advisers.

"I am honored by this appointment and will do my best to support Hong Kong businesses on the global stage, building on HKSAR's long-established position as an international trade and financial center, super connector and super value adder," Ma said.

Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah praised Ma's extensive public service and commercial experience.

He added: "I am confident that he will lead the HKTDC to make every effort in assisting enterprises to embrace the challenges arising from the ever-changing global trading landscape."

Yau also thanked outgoing chairman Lam for his significant contributions in promoting Hong Kong's advantages and opportunities.

The Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong welcomed the appointments of both Ma and Lam.

The association noted that the city is undergoing a transformation and actively seeking new growth drivers.

They believe Ma will bring fresh ideas and foster collaboration among stakeholders in the face of a complex international landscape.

The CMA also expressed confidence in Lam, wishing him success in leading the HKTB to revitalize the city's tourism industry and reach new heights.

Tourism sector lawmaker Yiu Pak-leung said that, with Lam's experience, capabilities and network, he could inject new momentum into the trade and foster closer ties between the authorities and the industry.