Mainland Chinese visitor spending is expected to exceed HK$2 billion (US$256 million) in Hong Kong during the Labour Day “golden week” break as arrival numbers fall in line with original estimates despite the recent stormy weather, the tourism chief has said.
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung said on Sunday about 670,000 mainlanders crossed into the city between Wednesday and Saturday last week, the first four days of the break which runs from May 1 to 5 on the mainland.
“It is close to our expectation of 800,000 mainland tourists. Considering the weather in Hong Kong, we have done a great job,” Yeung told a radio show, noting the impact from the heavy rainfall on both sides of the border might have delayed some travellers.
He said the final figure could exceed 700,000, as more tourists might come on Sunday amid improving weather on the final day of the break.
“I believe they will spend over HK$2 billion in Hong Kong … It will bring some help to…