Labour and welfare minister Chris Sun says the government will shift its focus from luring talent to retaining talent in the SAR, adding the talent hunt will continue beyond international sports stars.

In an exclusive interview with the Wen Wei Po newspaper, Sun also said there are no plans to expand labour importation schemes to cover more sectors other than construction, transport and care homes.

Recently, snooker stars Judd Trump and Ronnie O'Sullivan both became Hong Kong residents through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme.

Sun said the fact that international sports stars come to Hong Kong via various talent admission schemes shows how attractive the city is.

"They are internationally renowned sports stars and foreigners. They have many choices, but they chose Hong Kong. I believe this is the best way to show the world Hong Kong's appeal. It speaks louder than words," he said.

"We will continue our talent search, not limited to sports stars. Through our talent schemes, we are searching for some world-class talent."

Since late 2022, around 175,000 people have come to Hong Kong through various talent admission schemes, adding around 350,000 to the city's population along with their families.

The labour chief added there are no plans to provide housing allowances for imported professionals as the government makes housing a priority for local permanent residents.