Hong Kong has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to strengthen its tourism industry, focusing on culture, sports, and multi-destination travel. The First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2026-2030) and the 2026 Policy Address, announced by Chief Executive John Lee on September 16, outline measures to develop Hong Kong as an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange. These initiatives are critical as they aim to diversify the city's tourism offerings, attract high-value visitors, and sustain economic growth amid increasing regional competition.
A key component is the enrichment of high-quality tourism products and the enhancement of infrastructure. The government will establish a Support Unit for Non-local Film Productions to provide one-stop services for film crews, promoting "Film + Tourism" and showcasing Hong Kong's appeal. The Kai Tak Sports Park has already demonstrated success, hosting over 170 international and local sports and cultural events that drew more than 2.6 million spectators. The government will also explore redeveloping Victoria Park Centre Court into an all-weather, multi-purpose venue for larger-scale events, further solidifying Hong Kong's position as a premier events destination.
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law highlighted the growing trend of multi-destination tourism. In the first eight months of 2026, Hong Kong welcomed around 36.67 million visitor arrivals, an 11% year-on-year increase. Notably, over 20% of overseas visitors traveled onward to the Chinese Mainland via Hong Kong in the first half of 2026. To capitalize on this, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will promote multi-destination itineraries, partner with airlines, and intensify overseas publicity. These efforts are vital for extending visitor stays and boosting spending, as they leverage Hong Kong's unique position as a gateway between the Mainland and the world.
The government is also advancing the yacht economy. New berth projects include the Aberdeen composite development, with a tender scheduled for the first half of 2027, and the SKYTOPIA yacht bay. Since May, Hong Kong and Macao yachts can navigate nine Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area cities under simplified rules, and the first northbound yacht travel occurred in June. A memorandum of understanding with the Guangdong Maritime Safety Administration will soon enable southbound travel, adding momentum to cross-boundary leisure consumption. This initiative not only attracts affluent travelers but also stimulates the local marine and hospitality sectors.
To enhance Hong Kong's appeal as a Muslim-friendly destination, the HKTB will extend the Hong Kong Restaurants Halal Certification Funding Scheme to the end of 2027, encouraging more halal food options. This move caters to the growing Muslim travel market and demonstrates Hong Kong's commitment to inclusivity. For more information on Hong Kong's tourism initiatives, visit Brand Hong Kong.
These strategies are expected to reinforce Hong Kong's tourism industry, drive economic diversification, and strengthen its role as a global cultural and events hub. By integrating culture, sports, and tourism, Hong Kong aims to create a vibrant, sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits both visitors and residents.
