Hong Kong plans venue expansion as Paul Chan credits major events with economic momentum
Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the city would continue promoting major events and improving venues to support tourism, conventions and exhibitions. AsiaWorld-Expo’s second phase and redevelopment in Wan Chai North are expected to expand large-event capacity by more than 40 per cent. Chan linked recent arrivals of business leaders and visitors to the city’s economic momentum.
Economics & Markets··Morning
Major gatherings anchor the tourism plans
Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the city would keep promoting large events and improving the facilities serving conventions, exhibitions and high-spending visitors. In his 8 November remarks, he attributed economic momentum to recent arrivals of business leaders and tourists. He also pointed to the international gatherings and business opportunities associated with the events. Authorities are focusing on service quality and the experience of visitors as attendance increases.[1], [2]
AsiaWorld-Expo expansion targets completion in 2028
Chan said the second phase of AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong’s exhibition and event venue, remained on schedule for completion in 2028. It includes a multipurpose arena with around 20,000 seats. Together with redevelopment in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai North district, the projects are expected to increase large-venue convention and exhibition capacity by more than 40 per cent. Chan presented the expansion as part of the city’s effort to attract international fairs and major gatherings.[1]
Year-end calendar includes festivals and sport
The year-end programme includes Hong Kong WinterFest, the Clockenflap music and arts festival, international sports events, concerts at the city’s Kai Tak Sports Park and New Year countdown celebrations. Chan also cited annual economic growth of 5.2 per cent in the third quarter and 5.1 per cent over the first nine months. He described the latter as the fastest growth for that period in five years.[1]
