Hong Kong’s mega-events to attract 840,000 visitors in first 6 months: John Lee

Hong Kong will attract about 840,000 visitors and HK$3.3 billion (US$424.1 million) worth of spending in the first half of the year thanks to mega-events, the city’s leader has said, while also vowing to tap national development opportunities.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said on Tuesday that the line-up of mega-events being held in the first six months would generate additional economic value worth HK$1.8 billion.

“Under the ‘one country, two systems’ governing principle, Hong Kong can enjoy both national and international advantages,” Lee said before his weekly meeting with the key decision-making Executive Council.

“In the coming year, Hong Kong will face both opportunities and challenges, but the opportunities outweigh the challenges.

“We estimate that various mega-events in the first half of the year will attract about 840,000 visitors, bringing consumption expenditure of around HK$3.3 billion to Hong Kong.”

Lee pointed to the string of popular arts, cultural and sports events being held as part of “Hong Kong Super March” next month.