Hong Kong is making efforts to improve the tourist experience by encouraging service workers to be more welcoming and smile more. However, experts believe that the high prices and competition from Shenzhen are bigger challenges that need to be addressed.
The city has been known for its luxury shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, but it has struggled to attract visitors back to pre-disruption levels. The government launched the “Let’s Go the Extra Mile” campaign to promote good hospitality and enhance Hong Kong’s reputation as a top tourism destination.
Despite an increase in visitor numbers, reaching only 60% of pre-pandemic levels, the city still faces obstacles in fully recovering. One major issue is the high cost of living in Hong Kong, with the strong U.S. dollar making it an expensive destination compared to other Asian countries like Shenzhen and Japan. Mainland Chinese tourists, who make up a significant portion of visitors, are also spending less due to economic challenges at home.
As a result, many locals are opting to travel to Shenzhen for more affordable shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The convenience of high-speed rails and a cross-sea bridge has made the journey to Shenzhen more accessible, leading to a decline in business for Hong Kong establishments.
To combat these challenges, Hong Kong authorities are organizing citywide events and allocating funds to boost tourism and spending. However, experts believe that more drastic efforts are needed to address the high prices and competition from Shenzhen. The city’s businesses are feeling the impact of reduced foot traffic and declining sales, with many reporting a drop in performance compared to pre-pandemic levels.
In conclusion, while initiatives like the “Let’s Go The Extra Mile” campaign are a step in the right direction, Hong Kong must find innovative solutions to make the city more competitive and attractive to tourists. By addressing the issues of affordability and competition from neighboring cities like Shenzhen, Hong Kong can regain its status as a premier tourism destination in the region.