Hong Kong is set to expand its tourism sector with a series of film-inspired projects aimed at attracting more high-spending visitors, according to Chief Executive John Lee. The initiatives are part of a broader plan to diversify the city’s tourism offerings and integrate culture, sports, and large-scale events into the industry.
At a press event on Wednesday, Lee announced that the “Hong Kong Tourism Industry 2.0 Development Blueprint” will be released by the end of this year. This long-term strategy aims to enhance Hong Kong’s appeal to tourists by focusing on cultural, ecological, and sporting attractions, as well as promoting large-scale events. Areas of interest include yachting, panda tourism, and horse racing, all of which are set to play a central role in the city’s tourism revival efforts.
Diversifying Attractions
One of the key highlights of Lee’s announcement was the potential for expansion in Hong Kong’s port facilities to accommodate luxury cruise ships. He identified three specific locations with the capacity for further development: the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter, the waterfront near Hung Hom Station, and the former quarry site on Lamma Island. According to sources, Lamma Island could potentially be transformed into a resort area, with market research on the project’s feasibility expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025.
In addition to maritime tourism, Lee underscored the city’s intention to leverage its unique wildlife offerings. Hong Kong’s six resident pandas will be central to a new push for “panda tourism,” further diversifying the types of experiences available to visitors. The chief executive also highlighted plans to promote horse racing, a sport with deep roots in the city’s history, as a significant tourism draw.
Bolstering Cultural and Themed Tourism
Hong Kong’s tourism policy for the upcoming year will prioritize attracting high-spending tourists and promoting niche, themed tourism. Authorities are focusing on integrating cultural elements into the tourism experience, capitalizing on the city’s rich heritage and its growing reputation as a hub for international film production.
In line with this vision, the city has already showcased its unique style through various initiatives, such as the current exhibition at Hong Kong International Airport, which organizers say fully captures the atmosphere and history of Kowloon Walled City, a now-demolished but iconic urban enclave known for its dense, maze-like architecture and portrayal in movies.
Crime and Technological Concerns
However, while Hong Kong looks to the future of tourism, the city is also grappling with challenges in the realm of cybercrime. A recent high-profile case involved a criminal gang that used deepfake technology to defraud a love-struck individual out of HK$360 million. The group is believed to have operated from a 4,000-square-foot industrial unit, highlighting the growing risks posed by sophisticated digital scams. Authorities are expected to step up their efforts to combat such crimes as they work to maintain Hong Kong’s reputation as a safe destination.
Talent Retention to Support Growth
Hong Kong is also focused on retaining and attracting talent to support its evolving industries. According to data from the Immigration Department, 18,100 high-income professionals have moved to Hong Kong between the end of 2022 and September 30, 2023, as part of the “Immigration Control Scheme.” The city aims to retain 50,000 professionals each year through this program, ensuring a steady influx of skilled workers to support growth sectors, including tourism, finance, and technology.
As the city looks forward, these efforts signal Hong Kong’s commitment to maintaining its status as a world-class tourism destination, while embracing new opportunities and addressing modern challenges. The forthcoming tourism blueprint is expected to set the stage for significant changes, with a focus on innovation and sustainable growth.
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