Hong Kong recorded 14.31 million visitor arrivals in the first three months of the year, a 17% year-on-year increase, with full-year arrivals projected to reach 53.8 million, up approximately 8% from last year.
Speaking on a radio program on April 4, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law said the performance has been strong so far. She noted that there has been no observable impact on visitor numbers from ongoing tensions in the Middle East or a sharp rise in aviation fuel surcharges. If the current trend continues, total arrivals for the year could exceed expectations. She expressed hope that increased visitor numbers would translate into higher spending and longer stays.
Law added that non-mainland visitors accounted for 27% of arrivals last month, marking an increase compared with previous periods. With the Hong Kong Sevens scheduled to take place later this month—coinciding with its 50th anniversary—she expects to attract more international tourists and remains optimistic about visitor figures for April.
She said the current global environment remains volatile, with conflicts in the Middle East highlighting HK's advantages in safety and convenience. In the art market, HK continues to be an attractive destination for investment and trading. "At art exhibitions this year, we have seen visitors from Europe, the US and even the Middle East. Senior collectors from Qatar have also visited HK, and they consider it a better choice under current circumstances," Law said.
While transit travel may be affected, she noted that direct flights to HK have increased and are not expected to negatively impact visitor arrivals. High-end travelers often adopt a "since we're here" mindset, which helps boost local consumption.
Looking ahead, Law estimated that around one million visitors will arrive during the upcoming Labor Day holiday. She emphasized that authorities will ensure proper arrangements and coordination, and will chair meetings to review preparations. Hotel occupancy rates are expected to exceed 90%, while overall occupancy during the extended Golden Week period is projected to reach 70% to 80%, higher than in previous years.
Law also said that "Art March" events have received a positive response, with several activities attracting tens of thousands of participants. Despite having one fewer day than last year, ComplexCon drew more than 36,000 attendees, an increase year-on-year. The government has also reached a five-year agreement with Art Basel HK, expressing confidence that the exhibition will continue to be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre over the next five years.
This longer-term partnership will allow for more strategic planning, including incorporating local cultural elements such as performing arts, hiking trails, island tourism, and promoting Michelin-starred restaurants. Authorities also aim to attract more independent travelers from mainland cities beyond Guangdong Province and encourage visitors to extend their stay in HK.
(Reporter: Xiao Jingyuan; English Editor: Zoey SUN)
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