Hong Kong Tourism Board chief says ‘twisted perceptions’ weighing on long-haul markets
- Dane Cheng points to ‘transition’ in sector, with one industry leader saying ‘devastating’ retail situation may continue into next year
“Twisted perceptions” of Hong Kong have added to the city’s challenges in bringing back long-haul visitors, the head of the Tourism Board has said, pointing to ongoing flight capacity struggles and changed spending habits as further pain points.
One industry leader also said on Friday the “devastating” retail situation could continue well into next year, but measures such as the recently increased shopping tax threshold for mainland Chinese tourists could make the city more competitive.
Tourism Board executive director Dane Cheng Ting-yat and Hong Kong Retail Management Association chairwoman Annie Tse Yau On-yee were both speaking on a panel at the Post’s Redefining Hong Kong conference.
“We are facing a more challenging situation than a lot of other places, and it’s not just about Covid,” Cheng said.
“It’s a lot of twisted perceptions about Hong Kong, and that is the thing I think is most difficult for us to deal with, particularly in the long-haul markets.”
But he said those who did make the journey enjoyed their stay.