In the past, mainland Chinese tourists visiting Hong Kong were renowned for their luxury shopping sprees, prominently featuring high-end brands like Hermes. However, a new generation of Chinese travelers, driven by social media influences, is now embracing a different kind of tourism. These younger travelers are veering away from opulent shopping and focusing on low-key, immersive experiences that allow them to connect with the local culture.
This transformation in travel behavior coincides with economic challenges in China, particularly higher youth unemployment rates, prompting shifts in consumption patterns. During recent holidays, consumers across China have been traveling less and spending less, affecting Hong Kong’s aspirations of economic recovery through mainland Chinese tourists.
The repercussions of this change are felt acutely in Hong Kong’s tourism sector, which, before the COVID-19 pandemic, contributed approximately 3.6% to the city’s GDP and employed around 232,700 people, equivalent to about 6% of total employment. Despite a notable 20% to 30% surge in foot traffic during Golden Week, retail sales in Hong Kong remained on par with regular weekends. Luxury goods, such as jewelry and watches, experienced a significant 31% drop in sales value in August, compared to pre-2018 levels, impacted by political protests and the pandemic.
Another challenge facing Hong Kong is the strength of the local currency, the Hong Kong dollar, in comparison to the offshore Chinese yuan, making luxury shopping less attractive due to the unfavorable exchange rate. Furthermore, the city faces stiff competition from Hainan province, a tax-free tropical island in southern China, which is emerging as a preferred destination for luxury shopping. To add to this, global brands are increasing their presence in Hainan. For instance, LVMH’s duty-free unit, DFS Group, recently announced its plans to construct a mega mall in Hainan, marking its first venture in mainland China.
This shift in Chinese travelers’ behavior poses a wake-up call for Hong Kong’s tourism industry, which has been criticized for its over-reliance on consumption-centric attractions. To address this challenge, the city must diversify its tourism offerings beyond shopping malls and restaurants. Hong Kong possesses a rich cultural heritage, historic neighborhoods, and unexplored rural areas that can appeal to a new generation of travelers seeking authentic and unique experiences.
Paul Chan, co-founder of Walk in Hong Kong, a company specializing in walking tours, emphasizes the urgent need for diversification. He urges the tourism industry to showcase Hong Kong’s unique cultural identity and hidden gems to a global audience, portraying the city as more than just a shopping destination.
By embracing these changes and promoting its cultural and historical heritage, Hong Kong can adapt to evolving tourism trends, offering authentic experiences that resonate with the new wave of travelers seeking enrichment over extravagant purchases.
