In 2023, MICE overnight arrivals to Hong Kong reached 1.3 million visitors, about 70 per cent of the pre-pandemic level.
About half of business events visitors are from mainland China and a further 30 per cent are from short-haul markets.
Big international conferences and exhibitions are taking place this quarter, especially in the financial sector, with more to follow during the year across multiple sectors, such as aviation, logistics, innovation and technology and medical.
The first flagship financial event of the year, the Asian Financial Forum (AFF), on January 24-25, drew more than 3,600 policymakers and business leaders from over 50 countries and regions to Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
HKTB offered exclusive in-town experiences, including a TramOramic tour on a 1920s-style open-top tram; a Big Bus open-top night tour; free admission to Hong Kong Palace Museum; an Aqua Luna evening harbour cruise with a complimentary drink or privileged access to the Plaza Premium Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport.
A first-time visitor to Hong Kong said she enjoyed experiencing the city’s unique culture on the tram tour while a delegate on the harbour cruise found the Hong Kong skyline “mesmerising”.
Upcoming business events include the annual Technology for Change Asia conference later this month and the inaugural Fortune Innovation Forum on March 27-28.
HKTB noted that some business event planners time trips to coincide with major festivals and sports events. Among those to consider are the first-ever LIV Golf and Art Basel Hong Kong in March, the Hong Kong Sevens in April, the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival from April to July and the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races in June.
