But more needs to be done if the city is to maximise its potential in an increasingly competitive global landscape. The challenges ahead were put into perspective at the Post’s Redefining Hong Kong conference on Culture, Sports and Tourism yesterday.
One suggestion is for the authorities and organisers to collectively take a Hong Kong Inc approach in coordinating and promoting their activities to offer tourists who come for multiple events a more seamless experience. This is worthy of consideration, especially as visitors coming for a particular event may not be aware of other events of interest on the calendar. Coordination across public bodies and private stakeholders can create better synergy in this respect and entice more people to stay longer.
Equally essential is to renew the city’s appeal with constant reinvention. What becomes trendy today may soon become outdated in our fast-changing world. As we strive to enhance the city’s sports and cultural development and consolidate our position as a top tourism destination, stakeholders must work together to tell a more engaging Hong Kong story.
As Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui said, cultural and sports tourism in the city is “blooming”. The minister is confident that the annual visitor figure could reach 49 million as targeted. With more new offerings and better coordination among stakeholders, the trend can hopefully be sustained.
