Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park a cultural asset for promoting tourism: Paul Chan

Speaking at South China Morning Post summit on Friday, finance chief says sports should combine with business events to promote Hong Kong tourism.

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Financial Secretary Paul Chan delivers a keynote speech at the Hong Kong Sports Economy and Tourism Summit held at the Fullerton Hotel Ocean Park in Aberdeen. Photo: Eugene Lee

Published: 2:45pm, 6 Sep 2024Updated: 6:51pm, 6 Sep 2024

Hong Kong’s finance minister has said the soon-to-be-opened Kai Tak Sports Park should be more than just a “collection of facilities” and serve as a vibrant cultural “theatre” that connects people and creates opportunities.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po delivered a keynote address at the South China Morning Post’s Hong Kong Sports Economy and Tourism Summit on Friday, saying sporting events could be linked with other large-scale conventions and tourism attractions to entice visitors.

“We envision this new landmark to become an international spotlight and a popular destination for events, offering unparalleled experiences,” Chan said.

Hong Kong is set to open its long-awaited Kai Tak Sports Park next year, with the Post confirming that British rock band Coldplay will be the first act to take the stage at the venue.

Chan said the key to becoming a popular events destination lay in the content of programmes, emphasising they must cater to the interests of both residents and international visitors.

British rock band Coldplay will be the first act to perform at the 50,000-seat mega stadium at Kai Tak Sports Park when it opens early next year. Photo: Dickson Lee

“Effective marketing of these events is also crucial for attracting participation. When people flock to events, businesses will naturally follow,” Chan said.