Hong Kong targets further growth

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has said that it will use its role in the 2008 Olympics to attract even more travellers.

According to figures from the organisation, Hong Kong has seen annual growth of more than 20 per cent in UK visitor numbers in the first eight months of 2007.

It is hoped that the role that the location has to play in the 2008 Olympics – it will host the Games' equestrian events – will build on this success next year.

Richard Hume, HKTB director for northern Europe, said: "We recently showcased Hong Kong at the Blenheim Horse Trials and will undertake similar activity at a number of shows next year.

"We'll also have a major Olympics online campaign designed to raise consumer awareness of Hong Kong, as well as working closely with tour operators and agents to run special promotions."

Mr Hume claimed that Hong Kong has a "unique city buzz" and an "east-meets-west flavour".

The first eight months of this year saw over 380,000 people travel from the UK to visit Hong Kong, according to the HKTB.

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