Hong Kong has announced a comprehensive strategy to enhance its tourism industry, integrating culture, sports, and tourism under the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2026-2030) and the 2026 Policy Address, revealed by Chief Executive John Lee on September 16. The plan seeks to develop Hong Kong as an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange, enrich tourism products, and bolster infrastructure to attract global visitors. This matters because tourism is a key economic driver, and these measures aim to sustain growth, create jobs, and reinforce Hong Kong's position as a premier destination amid increasing regional competition.
Central to the strategy is the integrated development of culture, sports, and tourism. Lee emphasized Hong Kong's unique cultural vision shaped by Chinese and foreign influences, and the government will collaborate with Mainland and overseas sectors to host international exhibitions and performances. To support the film industry and promote 'Film + Tourism,' a Support Unit for Non-local Film Productions will be established, offering one-stop services for film crews. This is expected to attract more quality productions that showcase Hong Kong, thereby boosting visitor numbers and spending.
The Kai Tak Sports Park has already expanded Hong Kong's capacity for mega events, hosting over 170 sessions of international and local sports and cultural events, attracting more than 2.6 million spectators. The government will explore redeveloping Victoria Park Centre Court into an all-weather, multi-purpose venue for larger events. These investments in infrastructure are crucial for drawing high-value tourists and extending their stays, generating multiplier effects across hospitality, retail, and transport sectors.
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law highlighted the growing trend of multi-destination tourism. Hong Kong welcomed around 36.67 million visitor arrivals in the first eight months of 2026, an 11% year-on-year increase. Over 20% of overseas visitors traveled onward to the Chinese Mainland via Hong Kong in the first half of 2026. The government will capitalize on Central Government measures to facilitate foreign visits to the Mainland and deepen collaboration with provinces. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will promote multi-destination itineraries, partner with airlines, and intensify overseas publicity. These efforts aim to position Hong Kong as a gateway, enhancing its role in regional tourism and driving economic integration.
The plan also includes '+ Tourism' joint initiatives, integrating events with ecology, heritage, finance, and industrial brands to extend visitor stays. On the yacht economy, new berth projects are progressing, including the Aberdeen composite development and the SKYTOPIA yacht bay. Starting May, Hong Kong and Macao yachts can navigate nine Greater Bay Area cities under temporary registration, and the Marine Department will sign a memorandum with Guangdong for southbound travel, boosting cross-boundary leisure consumption. Additionally, the HKTB will extend the Hong Kong Restaurants Halal Certification Funding Scheme to 2027, enhancing the city's appeal as a Muslim-friendly destination.
These strategies are significant as they diversify Hong Kong's tourism offerings, reduce reliance on traditional markets, and create a more resilient economy. By leveraging cultural and sports events, improving infrastructure, and fostering regional cooperation, Hong Kong aims to add value to its tourism industry and maintain its competitive edge. For more information, visit Brand Hong Kong.
