Chief Executive John Lee on Saturday said Hong Kong saw a 12 percent rise in visitor arrivals during the first half of the year, when compared to the same period last year.

Speaking in a social media video address, Lee said 24 million people visited Hong Kong, with non-mainland arrivals up 17 per cent to almost 6 million. He said his administration would continue to make the SAR an attractive destination for tourists and that he welcomed ideas for September's Policy Address.

"We will keep creating tourist hotspots and organising large-scale events, offering different activities every day to attract visitors from around the world to Hong Kong. We aim to provide quality travel packages and services to leave tourists with happy memories," he said.

"The government has started consulting on the Policy Address. We welcome your feedback."

Lee said the figures were remarkable given the intense competition from neighbouring regions.

The first Policy Address district consultation session will be held in To Kwa Wan on Sunday, with online and TV live broadcasts.