Apec a chance for Hong Kong to earn its place in China’s tourism boom

Hong Kong and Shenzhen are set to host significant Apec gatherings in the coming weeks, attracting international visitors and presenting a unique opportunity for the city's tourism industry to capitalize on heightened attention. To entice overseas travelers to incorporate Hong Kong into their China holidays, addressing their concerns about ease of access and appealing experiences is crucial.

The mainland's tourism sector has seen impressive growth, with inbound visits surpassing 154 million last year and spending exceeding US$130 billion. The central government's plans for improved travel services, including streamlined visa processes and diversified experiences, further bolster Hong Kong's potential as a gateway to Chinese tourism.

By leveraging its extensive international connections and streamlined visitor services, Hong Kong can offer a seamless transition for travelers seeking an introduction to mainland China. The Tourism Board has already introduced "Hong Kong+GBA" and "Hong Kong+Chinese mainland" packages for European and North American travelers, highlighting the potential for multi-destination tourism.

Collaborating with local tour operators, destination management companies, and mainland partners, the Tourism Board can create tailored itineraries showcasing Hong Kong's diverse attractions, while coordinating transport and accommodation logistics. The city's thriving MICE sector provides a solid foundation, with last year's 2.51 million MICE visitors generating significant local revenue.

By extending these offerings to include Greater Bay Area destinations, Hong Kong can attract delegates and their accompanying visitors, driving additional overnight stays and spending. Collaboration between Hong Kong authorities and mainland counterparts to address cross-border barriers is essential for the success of these multi-destination packages.

As operators test these offerings with delegates, gathering feedback on entry requirements, transport arrangements, and flexibility in case of changes will be crucial. Measuring success through increased Hong Kong nights, local spending, and repeat bookings will help operators refine their offerings for future conferences and exhibitions.

Ultimately, Hong Kong's strategic positioning at the heart of China's Apec year presents a compelling opportunity for the tourism industry to grow and thrive alongside the country's burgeoning tourism market.