Hong Kong’s secretary for culture, sports, and tourism, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, asserts that Mainland China will continue to be the territory’s leading source market for tourists for at least five more years.

This assertion comes in spite of the rollout of a recent strategic plan aimed at advancing Hong Kong’s tourist sector. In a recent interview, Law remarked:

“The fact that mainlanders constitute the largest number of tourists to Hong Kong will not change in five years because of the proximity between Hong Kong and other mainland cities.” (Translation: The large number of tourists from China won’t change anytime soon due to the close distance to mainland cities.)

However, Law expressed optimism that the tally of international visitors would rise, pointing to a 30% year-on-year growth in the recent holiday season.

She added:

“As for whether international tourists will increase, that is my goal. And I am very confident that the city can achieve that.” (Translation: I aim for the increase in international visitors, and I’m confident we can achieve it.)

A Necessary Blueprint

Recent Hong Kong administrations have launched an eagerly awaited tourism development blueprint, projecting an economic boost of $15.5 billion and 210,000 new jobs over five years.

This blueprint encompasses strategies like showcasing pandas, promoting horse racing, and hosting mega events, all intended to attract more international arrivals. It further emphasizes Hong Kong’s position as an essential hub for global tourism, where East meets West.