The 2026 Hong Kong Tourism Development Forum was held today (June 10) under the themes of Technology Empowerment and Tourism Cooperation. The main forum, centred on the theme of building Hong Kong into a world-class premier tourism destination, explored ways to further enhance the city's tourism appeal and competitiveness.
Speaking at the event, Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan said the Chief Executive announced yesterday that the Hong Kong SAR government will launch a two-month public consultation next Monday on the city's first-ever "Five-Year Plan." Chan said the government will actively listen to views from all sectors, align with the strategic direction of the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, and fully leverage the central government's various policies beneficial to Hong Kong. The goal is to build Hong Kong into a world-class tourism destination of choice for global travellers, leveraging the city's unique advantage of serving as a bridge connecting China and the world under the nation's opening-up strategy, and positioning Hong Kong as a key window for cultural exchange between China and the West.
Chan noted that Hong Kong's tourism industry has been developing steadily over the past few years. Last year, the city received approximately 50 million visitor arrivals, a 12% increase from 2024 – a very encouraging result. Entering 2026, the momentum remains strong, with more than 18.5 million visitor arrivals recorded in the first four months of the year. The authorities estimate that total annual visitor arrivals will reach 53.8 million, an 8% year-on-year increase. Chan said the government will continue to adhere to the principle of "valuing quality as much as quantity," offering diverse and enriching experiences to visitors from around the world.
Chan highlighted Hong Kong's unique tourism resources – from world‑class theme parks and the globally renowned Victoria Harbour skyline to its fusion of ancient and modern, East and West urban landscapes, as well as its beautiful natural scenery. All of these showcase the unique charm of the "Pearl of the Orient," where East meets West, and tradition blends with modernity. The government will make good use of Hong Kong's status as an international metropolis, continuously improve service quality, and actively promote the "tourism plus" development model – deeply integrating culture, sports, mega events, and other elements with tourism to create more Hong Kong‑featured products, experiences, and activities. The aim is to make every visitor to Hong Kong feel welcomed, comfortable, and at home.
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