Tourism Sector Gets HK$1.2b To Prepare For Reopening

The Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, has earmarked HK$1.26 billion to boost the battered tourism sector, saying there's a need to strengthen the industry and prepare for an eventual border reopening in the near future.

"In light of fierce regional competition, we will get well‑prepared by providing additional resources for the promotion of cultural, heritage and green tourism projects with Hong Kong characteristics, enhancing tourism promotion and rolling out enticing promotional offers in a timely manner to attract tourists from outside Hong Kong," he said, while delivering his latest budget on Wednesday.

"This will also help consolidate Hong Kong's position as a core demonstration zone for multi‑destination tourism and an international tourism hub."

Chan said HK$600 million will be set aside for a three-year plan to develop and launch tourism products with cultural and heritage elements.

Another HK$60 million will be used to sponsor the training of tourism practitioners, while the remaining HK$600 million will go to the Hong Kong Tourism Board to revive the industry and develop travel with the Greater Bay Area.

Separately, the finance chief said the government will set aside HK$42 million to organise the Hong Kong's first-ever Performing Arts Market within two years, which will showcase top-notch artists and arts groups from all over the world.

HK$70 million will also be earmarked for upgrading performing facilities under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.