Gov’t injects $100m to boost tourism

The fund will go to the establishment of a Mega Events Coordination Group.

The government will allocate $100m over the next three years to set up a Mega Events Coordination Group to boost tourism, Financials Secretary Paul Chan said in his Budget speech.

Over 80 events are due to be staged in Hong Kong in 1H2024.

FS Chan said conferences can help boost Hong Kong’s branding.

Aside from attracting visitors, Hong Kong seeks to visit other regions and markets to promote Hong Kong directly through the new Sponsored Overseas Speaking Engagement Programme.

In addition, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will hold pyrotechnic and drone shows against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour every month and will revamp its light-and-sound show, “A Symphony of Lights”.

The HKTB will also develop seasonal festival experiences and will encourage the industry to launch more diverse tourism products.
The government will introduce commercial activities facilities for retail, entertainment, and F&B operations on a pilot basis, at selected harbourfront locations.

In addition, the HKTB will collaborate with GBA cities to jointly promote multi-destination tourism. 

The government said it will earmark an additional $1.1b in funding for the HKTB and the Tourism Commission to organise events and other tourism activities.