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The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced a robust resurgence in Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, securing over 60 high-profile MICE events between 2024 and 2026. This strategic triumph underscores Hong Kong’s preeminence as a global meeting place and promises significant economic and reputational gains for the city.

A Remarkable Rebound in MICE Tourism

In the first half of 2024, Hong Kong welcomed approximately 21 million visitors, half of whom stayed overnight. Among the overnight visitors, 700,000 were MICE tourists, which has recovered to about 80% of the pre-pandemic levels in the same period in 2018. This impressive recovery positions the MICE sector as the fastest-recovering segment in Hong Kong’s tourism industry.

Each overnight MICE visitor contributed significantly to the local economy, spending an average of HK$8,000, 20-30% higher than the average expenditure of other inbound travellers. MICE visitors also tended to stay longer, averaging 3.7 nights compared to the overall average of 3.2 nights for all overnight visitors. Notably, half of these MICE tourists originated from international markets, highlighting Hong Kong’s global appeal.

Diverse and Prestigious Events

The HKTB’s concerted efforts have secured a plethora of prestigious events across various sectors, including aviation, education, architecture, medical sciences, innovation and technology (I&T), and financial services. These events are expected to draw more than 180,000 visitors, significantly boosting local businesses and enhancing Hong Kong’s international image.

Among the notable wins is the return of ACM SIGGRAPH Asia in 2025, last held in Hong Kong in 2013. The event is a flagship conference in computer graphics and interactive techniques. Other significant events include SmartCon 2024 and Consensus Hong Kong 2025 in the I&T sector, Super Terminal Expo 2024 and Routes World 2025 in aviation, and the World Cancer Congress 2026 in medical sciences.

These high-profile events reaffirm Hong Kong’s status as a world-class MICE destination and strengthen its leadership in various industry sectors.

Strategic Initiatives to Foster Growth

To sustain this growth momentum, the HKTB has laid out five strategic initiatives:

Securing Major International Events: The HKTB will continue aggressively bidding for significant international MICE events, ensuring a steady stream of high-calibre gatherings.
Funding Support: Various funding schemes will support events of different scales and types, benefiting the entire travel ecosystem, including trade, travel agents, and hotels.
Targeted Marketing Programs: Tailored programs like the “Hong Kong Incentive Playbook” and the “Hong Kong Convention Ambassadors” will continue to drive MICE tourism growth through bespoke experiences and incentives.
Enhanced Visitor Experiences: The HKTB will enhance tourists’ in-town experiences by arranging value-added activities such as sightseeing tours and complimentary museum tickets, showcasing Hong Kong’s rich cultural and leisure offerings.
Leveraging Unique Advantages: Bids, publicity, and promotions will emphasize Hong Kong’s role as a “super-connector” between international businesses and Mainland markets, highlighting the city’s world-class venue facilities and excellent transport infrastructure.

Future Outlook: A Thriving MICE Destination

The HKTB’s strategic efforts have secured an impressive lineup of events across various sectors, reflecting Hong Kong’s diverse strengths and global appeal. Some key events include:

Innovation & Technology: SmartCon 2024 and Consensus Hong Kong 2025, pivotal conferences in blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors.
Aviation: Super Terminal Expo 2024 and Routes World 2025, gathering global aviation and logistics leaders.
Medical Sciences: The World Cancer Congress 2026, a premier event in oncology.
Finance and Insurance: The East Asian Insurance Congress and GAMA LAMP Asia, key financial industry meetings.
Education and Architecture: The Asia-Pacific Association for International Education Conference & Exhibition 2026 and the International Federation of Landscape Architects World Congress 2026.

These events will draw diverse professionals and experts to Hong Kong and establish the city as a leading destination for international business and conventions.

Hong Kong’s successful bid to host over 60 major MICE events between 2024 and 2026 is a testament to its strategic vision and robust infrastructure. The HKTB’s efforts are set to boost the local economy significantly, enhance the city’s global standing, and attract high-yield visitors worldwide. As Hong Kong continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of the MICE industry, it remains poised to retain its position as a premier global meeting hub.