Chen Maobo: Hong Kong will host over 100 grand events in the second half of the year, expected to attract more than 1.85 million visitors.

On September 9, Paul Chan Mo-po, the Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, published a blog stating that in the first half of this year, approximately 1.75 million travelers participated in over 130 major events, generating about HKD 5.8 billion in consumption and contributing an economic added value of approximately HKD 3.3 billion. Looking ahead to the second half of the year, Hong Kong will host over 100 major events, expected to attract more than 1.85 million travelers. Paul Chan Mo-po also noted that the Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+ Museum had a combined revenue that increased by 22% year-on-year last year, with venue rentals and cultural product sales becoming significant sources of income. For example, for the "Ancient Egyptian Civilization Exhibition Treasures from the Egyptian Museum," the Hong Kong Palace Museum launched about 200 related cultural products, with total sales surpassing HKD 30 million. Paul Chan Mo-po stated that major events drive both local and overseas foot traffic, leading to more diverse consumption interactions. Recent events such as the "Hong Kong Football Festival 2026" and the "2026 Audi Summer Tour," held at Kai Tak Sports Park, attracted over 120,000 spectators to three matches, with ticket revenues expected to exceed HKD 180 million. This also promoted various positive benefits, with some nearby restaurants reporting about a 20% increase in business during this period, and many merchants offering ticket discounts, dining promotions, and free parking. Paul Chan Mo-po further mentioned that from arts and cultural creation to major events, they contribute positively to Hong Kongs atmosphere and consumption demand. Overall data also shows a good momentum, as the total retail sales value in Hong Kong has risen for 14 consecutive months, with a 9.6% increase in the first half of this year. Looking ahead to the second half of the year, Paul Chan Mo-po stated that Hong Kong will host over 100 major events, including the HK Trade Development Council Food Expo, National Day Fireworks Display, Hong Kong Bicycle Festival, and Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, expected to attract over 1.85 million travelers and generate approximately HKD 5.9 billion in consumption, with an economic added value of about HKD 3.3 billion. In addition, Hong Kong will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers' Meeting for the first time in October this year, where important political and business leaders from the Asia-Pacific region will gather in Hong Kong. Hong Kong will seize this opportunity to showcase that it is not only a top-tier international financial center but also a city rich in cultural creation, arts, sports, and lifestyle experiences, making it an ideal place to live, work, and visit.