Hong Kong's Secret Weapon for Tourism Dominance? Its Cultural Festivals, Says Shangri-La CEO
Kuok Hui Kwong urges Hong Kong to tap traditional festivals to draw global visitors.
Kuok Hui Kwong, chairman and group CEO of Shangri-La Group, told the South China Morning Post that Hong Kong must tap its 'cultural foundation' to strengthen its tourism appeal amid intense regional competition. Speaking at the launch of Shangri-La’s new 'Dragonbeat' festival programme—part of a five-year partnership with the Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships—Kuok emphasised that Hong Kong has done well since the pandemic to attract international visitors but could go further.
She described Hong Kong as 'a vibrant international city that has really preserved a lot of its traditional culture' and uniquely positioned as a bridge between mainland China and the world. This position gives the city 'enormous potential' for cultural tourism, especially as the mainland grows as a global travel destination. 'This allows Hong Kong to have fresh opportunities to build a new competitive advantage in terms of tourism through culture,' Kuok said.
- Shangri-La Group CEO Kuok Hui Kwong urges Hong Kong to leverage traditional festivals for cultural tourism
- She spoke at the launch of Shangri-La’s 'Dragonbeat' programme, part of a 5-year partnership with Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships
- Kuok highlights Hong Kong's unique role as a bridge between mainland China and the world for tourism growth
Why It Matters
A top hospitality leader’s call to action that could reshape Hong Kong’s tourism strategy and global positioning.