Exhibition industry contributes $52.9m to 2016 GDP

The industry also generated 77,000 jobs in the same period.

Contributions from Hong Kong’s exhibition industry boosted last year’s economic performance through its $52.9b (US$6.8b) in expenditure contribution which is equivalent to 2.1% of 2016 gross domestic product, according to a press release from Hong Kong Exhibition Convention Industry Association.

The industry also produced 77,000 full time employment opportunities last year.

The study also noted that international exhibitors or high-value groups spent 75% more than general overnight tourists which stimulated the retail, hotel and F&B sectors.

Moreover, total fiscal benefits received from the exhibition industry last year amounted to $1.9b (US$244.2m).

“We must do our best to secure international exhibitors and exhibition visitors who are proven high spenders, and to ensure that Hong Kong continues to have the capabilities to attract and host large and significant exhibitions in the years to come,” said HKECIA chairman Stuart Bailey.