Policy Address

Tourism

17.         Tourism is a major industry in Hong Kong.  It accounted for 5% of GDP in 2013 and provided nearly 270 000 jobs.  However, we should not merely focus on the growth in tourist numbers.  Last year, I stressed that we should pursue a balanced, healthy and long-term development of the tourism industry, and move towards diversified and high value-added services.  While promoting tourism, the receiving capacity of various districts should also be considered.  In light of the above, the “one trip per week” Individual Visit Endorsements for residents of Shenzhen was implemented last year.

18.         Last year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) was asked to step up its overseas publicity efforts, especially in Southeast Asia.  To this end, $80 million was allocated to the HKTB.  A matching fund of $10 million has also been set up to support the overseas promotion efforts of our tourist attractions. 

19.         These measures have begun to deliver results.  The overall number of tourists is largely stable.  Total visitor arrivals in 2015 fell slightly by 2.5% over 2014.  While there was a drop in inbound visitors from the Mainland, the visitors from other places, including Southeast Asia and long-haul destinations, showed signs of a pick-up with a year-on-year increase of about 5% in the fourth quarter last year. 

20.         To move our tourism industry up the value chain, the Government will highlight the unique and diversified experiences Hong Kong offers and showcase our gourmet culture.  It will also promote cultural and creative tourism, organise mega events, and draw more conventions and exhibitions to Hong Kong.  In addition to taking forward planning studies on the Tourism Node at Kai Tak and Lantau, the Government is discussing the further development of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, including the Phase 2 expansion. 

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