In a discussion that underscored the intersection of tourism and economic strategy, Tourism Minister Rosanna Law urged caution regarding any plans to expand Hong Kong Disneyland using public funds. Law’s comments came during a Legislative Council meeting on Tuesday, where lawmakers examined the theme park’s remarkable profits and surge in visitor numbers over the past year.
Law highlighted the need for careful deliberation, particularly given the current economic climate. “If the upward trend continues, will the shareholders have the investment appetite for another project within the current theme park, or even the park’s second phase development?” she asked, emphasizing the importance of stability in visitor markets before making significant financial commitments.
The meeting revealed that Hong Kong Disneyland has enjoyed a notable increase in visitors from both mainland China and overseas markets. This growth has prompted some councillors to advocate for the relaunch of Disneyland’s second phase development, suggesting that the park could capitalize on its current success.
However, Law reiterated the necessity of a cautious approach. “We need to observe a bit more, like whether the source markets of visitors really keep growing in a stable manner,” she said, signaling that any expansion plans should be backed by solid data and market trends.
In addition to the discussions about expansion, lawmakers expressed interest in attracting more visitors from the Middle East. Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland, responded by noting that a significant portion of their visitors hails from the region. “If you were to look at our attendance from arrivals in the Middle East, it’s one out of every three persons on every plane,” he stated, indicating strong interest from Middle Eastern travelers.
To cater to this demographic, Moriarty highlighted the park’s commitment to inclusivity, mentioning the availability of Halal food options and prayer facilities for Muslim guests. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also positions Hong Kong Disneyland as a welcoming destination for a diverse audience.
As the discussion continues, the future of Hong Kong Disneyland remains a focal point of interest—balancing economic opportunity with prudent planning in a fluctuating global market.
