Shenzhen too pricey? Cost-conscious Hongkongers dig deeper into mainland China

Retired Hong Kong vendor Leung Ching laments the rising cost of dining in Shenzhen, a city just a short train ride away from his home. Prices in Shenzhen have surged, with a meal for four now costing between 500 to 600 yuan, compared to just over 300 yuan a few years ago. This trend mirrors a broader shift as Hongkongers seek more affordable options in mainland China.

Consumer prices in Shenzhen have risen across various categories, including food, clothing, and healthcare. Last year, overnight trips by Hong Kong residents to Guangdong province, just northwest of Shenzhen, surged by 2.35 per cent year-on-year. Guangzhou, the provincial capital, offers a more affordable weekend getaway, with visitors able to consult traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, receive acupuncture treatment, and enjoy Cantonese cuisine.

Hong Kong residents are increasingly comparing consumer experiences across different cities in mainland China, with destinations such as Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Dongguan, and Shunde attracting attention. Local governments are also working to attract Hongkongers, with Zhongshan promoting its food and heritage at the Hong Kong International Travel Expo.

A Visa report found that 49 per cent of surveyed Hong Kong residents made regular trips to the Greater Bay Area, primarily for dining, family-friendly experiences, and shopping. The increased accessibility of Zhongshan, due to the opening of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link cross-sea highway, has made it an appealing destination for Hongkongers seeking to stretch their dollars further.