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The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) in Hong Kong has reported a widening deficit of HK$998 million for the last financial year. Rising operating costs have outpaced revenue growth, according to the authority's latest financial figures released on the Legislative Council website. Part of the increased expenses can be attributed to staff costs, driven by factors such as the ongoing construction of the WestK Performing Arts Centre, which is scheduled to open next year.

The WKCDA, a government-established statutory body since 2008, aims to foster arts and creative industries in Hong Kong. The organization manages notable venues like M+ museum and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, along with the Xiqu Centre and outdoor event spaces. In February, the WKCDA secured a HK$3 billion bank loan from Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia), a partially state-owned bank.

The authority is also exploring residential development projects to generate additional income. The Artist Square Towers project, consisting of three commercial office buildings, is expected to be completed next year and is projected to provide a reliable source of rental income. Additionally, the tendering of residential and hotel projects, slated to commence in the 2027-28 financial year, is expected to significantly boost future revenue streams.

Recently, Rosanna Law, the permanent secretary for culture, sports, and tourism, disclosed that seven executives at M+ Museum and Hong Kong Palace Museum earned a combined HK$20.9 million during the past financial year, with each executive earning an average of over HK$260,000 per month.