Hong Kong’s beleaguered catering industry may enjoy a bumper Christmas as many restaurants are fully booked and a 10 per cent year-on-year rise in business is expected over the holiday, thanks to a revived multiple-entry visa scheme for Shenzhen residents.
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Industry leaders said Hong Kong’s retail scene had been gaining momentum since the scheme, which allows Shenzhen residents to make an unlimited number of visits to the city within a year, resumed on December 1.
They added that the Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo, one of the city’s largest annual bazaars, had seen a 5 per cent increase in business last week due to the visa change. The fair in Victoria Park opened on December 14 and will run until January 6.
Simon Wong Ka-wo, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, said outlets would enjoy a 10 per cent rise in business during the festive season compared with that of last year, owing to the visa scheme.
“The resumption of the scheme has recently triggered an uptick in the number of mainland tourists to Hong Kong, while the sentiment for local consumption is rising due to various discounts and promotions at eateries for the Christmas season,” he said.
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“Many restaurants enjoy full bookings this Christmas, especially some famous outlets such as Michelin-star ones. A series of activities by the Tourism Board such as panda activities have boosted business. The vibes are really vibrant.”