Hong Kong had a remarkable month in October with a record number of non-mainland visitors, according to Tourism minister Kevin Yeung. The city welcomed nearly a million non-mainland tourists, marking the highest figure for a single month this year. Overall, total visitor arrivals in October surpassed 4 million, with non-mainland tourists accounting for over 950,000 of them.
Looking at the bigger picture, tourist arrivals for the first 10 months of the year reached 36.6 million, showing a significant 37 percent increase compared to the same period last year. These numbers highlight the growing appeal of Hong Kong as a tourism destination.
During a Legco panel meeting, the discussion turned towards the potential of promoting horse-racing tourism, a concept included in Chief Executive John Lee’s Policy Address. Third Side councillor Tik Chi-yuen raised concerns about the possibility of increased gambling, particularly among the younger population. However, Yeung clarified that the goal is not to promote gambling but to attract tourists who view horse-racing as an exciting event. He emphasized Hong Kong’s unique position as the only place in the region capable of hosting top-tier horse races.
Another topic of discussion was the upcoming Kai Tak Sports Park, scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025. Election Committee councillor Chan Siu-hung inquired about ensuring high utilization rates for nearby shops and facilities on non-event days. He pointed out that the adjacent cruise terminal sometimes experiences periods of low activity. Yeung differentiated between the two locations, stating that the sports park is a public facility open for booking by individuals and groups on days without events.
The developments in Hong Kong’s tourism sector reflect the city’s efforts to diversify its attractions and cater to a broader audience. The record-breaking number of non-mainland visitors in October indicates a positive trend in the local tourism industry. As the city prepares to unveil new facilities like the Kai Tak Sports Park, there are opportunities to enhance the overall visitor experience and boost tourism revenues further. By balancing the promotion of unique events like horse-racing with responsible tourism practices, Hong Kong aims to maintain its status as a premier destination in the region.
