Government Coordinates National Day Golden Week Visitor Preparations
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau held an inter-departmental meeting on Friday to coordinate Hong Kong's preparations for the upcoming National Day Golden Week, as authorities anticipate a significant surge in visitor numbers during the October 1-7 holiday period. Bureau Director Lo Suet-pui emphasized the importance of cross-departmental cooperation and coordination with mainland counterparts to deliver a positive tourism experience. The government also outlined its ongoing efforts to combat illegal practices such as forced shopping, which have tarnished Hong Kong's tourism reputation.
Key Points
- The inter-departmental meeting took place on September 11, chaired by Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau Director Lo Suet-pui, to coordinate visitor reception for the October 1-7 National Day Golden Week
- Participating government departments included the Hong Kong Police Force, Immigration Department, Customs and Excise Department, Transport Department, Department of Health, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, and district offices
- Tourism-related bodies represented included the Travel Industry Authority, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Travel Industry Council, West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, major attractions, and the hotel sector
- The Travel Industry Authority has revoked licenses from two travel agencies and one tour guide in September alone for involvement in forced shopping, following similar actions in April, June, and August
- The government also reminded departments to prepare for the Mid-Autumn Festival long weekend from September 25-27, when visitor numbers are expected to rise
Why It Matters
With National Day Golden Week representing one of Hong Kong's peak tourism seasons, effective coordination between government agencies and industry players is essential to manage the influx of visitors and maintain the city's reputation as a premier travel destination. The continued enforcement against forced shopping practices demonstrates the authorities' commitment to protecting tourist rights and restoring confidence in Hong Kong's tourism industry amid competitive regional destinations .
With National Day Golden Week representing one of Hong Kong's peak tourism seasons, effective coordination between government agencies and industry players is essential to manage the influx of visitors and maintain the city's reputation as a premier travel destination. The continued enforcement against forced shopping practices demonstrates the authorities' commitment to protecting tourist rights and restoring confidence in Hong Kong's tourism industry amid competitive regional destinations .