Hong Kong sets course to become leading global tourism destination again

A recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council shows that while the city’s tourism sector has made a strong comeback, there is still room to attract a more diverse range of international visitors.

In 2025, Hong Kong welcomed an estimated 50.3 million tourists, down 22.9% from the 2018 peak of 65.3 million, but the industry has rebounded to nearly pre-pandemic levels.

Tourism remains a key pillar of the city’s economy, contributing over $56 billion and supporting more than half a million jobs.

However, the report notes that 76% of visitors currently come from Mainland China, highlighting the need to expand into new markets such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and India.

The council recommends a renewed focus on long-haul travel, business tourism, and curated visitor experiences.

From global conferences to cultural festivals, Hong Kong is being encouraged to reposition itself as more than just a shopping hub, offering richer and more diverse attractions to travelers.

“Hong Kong remains a global powerhouse, defined by world-class infrastructure and a unique cultural DNA that bridges East and West,” said Gloria Guevara. She emphasized that with strong partnerships and clear strategy, the city is “reclaiming its rightful place as a premier global destination.”

Government backing is also playing a major role, with significant investment planned to boost tourism marketing, events, and international connectivity.

Combined with its growing aviation capacity and strategic location, Hong Kong appears well-positioned to compete once again on the global stage.

New World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) research has revealed that Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, can re-establish itself as a go-to destination for international travellers by investing in key source markets.

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