HK needs diversified source markets, tourism rep says
The Travel Industry Council (TIC) said Hong Kong must work to expand its visitor source markets, while leveraging on Beijing's visa-free transit policy to strengthen its role as a travel gateway to the mainland. TIC chairman Tommy Tam noted the SAR is already benefiting from the relaxation of visa-free entry rules for transit passengers, which took effect last year. Under the refined policy,…
Hong Kong must diversify its visitor source markets, according to the Travel Industry Council (TIC). Chairman Tommy Tam emphasized the city's role as a travel gateway to the mainland, leveraging Beijing's visa-free transit policy. Since last year, up to 55 countries can transit through China without a visa, staying for up to 10 days.
These travelers can enter and leave via 65 ports, including the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and West Kowloon high-speed rail station. Tam believes mainland high-speed rail will attract more visitors from outside Guangdong. While Taiwan will continue to benefit from mainland visitors, Tam urged the city not to neglect overseas markets.
Hong Kong is adapting to meet the demands of mainland visitors seeking high-quality, experimental, and life-oriented travel, while also targeting long-haul international markets. The city should also diversify into Belt and Road regions, particularly the Middle East, Asean, and Central Asia. Tam's proposals were among those submitted to the government, which is drafting Hong Kong's inaugural five-year plan and Policy Address.
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