Hong Kong Tourism Board: Will continue to discuss with the mainland whether to increase the convenience measures for mainland tourists such as adding more cities for independent travel.

On February 22nd, Yang Runxiong, the Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, stated at a Legislative Council meeting that the mainland is still the main source of tourists for Hong Kong, accounting for 80% of total visitors, and plays a crucial role in the tourism industry of Hong Kong. The Board will continue to discuss with other mainland ministries measures to facilitate mainland tourists, such as increasing the number of cities under the Individual Visit Scheme or increasing the duty-free allowance for personal items brought into Hong Kong by mainland visitors. Earlier, there were reports that the central government is considering expanding the Individual Visit Scheme. The Chairwoman of the Hong Kong Tourism Council, Xu Wang Meilun, responded that such measures can facilitate more residents from different mainland cities to visit Hong Kong, whether as individual or group tourists, thereby increasing business opportunities in the tourism industry and boosting the economy. Xu Wang Meilun mentioned that after customs clearance, strengthening connections and collaboration within the Greater Bay Area would allow for the development of multi-destination tourism products due to convenient transportation. She expressed that she is not worried about Hong Kong losing its appeal, as each city in the Greater Bay Area has its own unique characteristics and advantages, and she hopes to connect them to offer tourists a multi-destination itinerary. She gave examples of different events in Hong Kong, such as cultural and sports events, that the industry can link together to provide new tourism products. As long as the tourism products are good and can establish a brand for Hong Kong, they can definitely attract tourists from around the world. Xu Wang Meilun also mentioned the importance of attracting more tourists by expanding the cities under the Individual Visit Scheme, not just limited to the Greater Bay Area. Even in remote areas, if tourists have to fly to Hong Kong, they would stay for at least two or four nights. She emphasized that as long as there are opportunities, more businesses can be done, and Hong Kong can continue to develop its tourism industry. At today's meeting, Yang Runxiong pointed out that the Hong Kong government is committed to cultivating and expanding tourism products and projects with Hong Kong and international characteristics, as well as promoting various events and activities in Hong Kong. The aim is to strengthen Hong Kong's position as the events capital of Asia, showcase Hong Kong's infinite charm to the world, and attract high-end visitors to Hong Kong and extend their stay. Since Hong Kong fully resumed cross-border tourism, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has already organized six flagship events in 2023, including the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Invitation Race, Let's Celebrate Victoria Harbour Carnival, Hong Kong Cycling Festival, Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, Hong Kong Winter Festive Campaign, and Hong Kong New Year Countdown. These events have created a lively atmosphere in the city and enhanced its international reputation, successfully attracting tourists to experience Hong Kong firsthand, as well as encouraging local residents to participate actively. Most tourists have responded positively to these events, with over 90% of the surveyed tourists believing that these events have enhanced their satisfaction with their visit to Hong Kong. During the recent mainland Chinese New Year Golden Week, many events were held, including the New Year International Gala on the first day of the lunar new year, the Lunar New Year Fireworks Display on the second day, the Lunar New Year Race Day on the third day, and the Chinese New Year Cup Football Match on the fourth day. These events not only brought festive activities to the residents of Hong Kong but also attracted tourists to visit. Mainland tourists were able to utilize the extended holiday period during the Chinese New Year to participate in various activities in Hong Kong and experience the festive atmosphere. Yang Runxiong stated that since the establishment of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, they have been working tirelessly to promote cultural and sports tourism events at both the policy and practical levels. Looking ahead to 2024, there are already more than 80 events planned in the first half of the year. In the future, the Hong Kong government will actively seek to attract more international large-scale events to Hong Kong to further promote the events economy. The government will also enhance promotion and publicity efforts to increase public awareness of the events.