Cultural and sporting events are key to revitalising Hong Kong’s tourism industry, according to Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law.

Speaking on RTHK’s ‘Talking to CEOs’ programme on Sunday, Law highlighted the importance of mega events in boosting the city’s appeal - not just for locals, but also repeat visitors.

“People often talk about scenic spots, and of course those are wonderful. Take Victoria Harbour, if you see it every day, you get used to it. You think it’s just meant to look that way,” she said.

“But when you add fireworks, an IP parade on the water, triathletes competing during the National Games or sailing races, suddenly the harbour reveals a different kind of beauty each time.”

Law noted that many visitors come from nearby cities, and the goal is to encourage them to keep returning.

“The first trip might be about sightseeing and exploration. But later, they come back to take part in our events - and that’s what really drives the economy,” she said.

As an example, she pointed to concerts featuring popular artists at different times of the year, which give tourists fresh reasons to revisit Hong Kong.

When large-scale concerts are held in the city, she said they attract significant numbers of mainland visitors.

Law shared that in some cases, audiences from the mainland have made up as much as 60 percent of total concertgoers.

This surge, she said, brings a great deal of benefits to the dining, transport and hospitality industries.

“Our local attractions and parks will continue to expand. But the truth is, any attraction that stays the same will eventually have its day,” she explained.

“Mega-events don’t have that problem. If I come to Kai Tak today to see one singer, and next month another artist I love performs, I’ll come again. If there’s someone I like every month, I could visit almost every month.”



Edited by Priscilla Ng