National Games: how co-hosting adds up for Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area
Tripartite hosting can share the burden, while Hong Kong has opportunity to show its credentials as a regional sports hub
The National Games’ unprecedented tripartite hosting arrangement is a calculated strategy, showcasing the Greater Bay Area’s synergy while mitigating the substantial financial and logistical burdens on any single host city, according to experts.
“It is more of a political move to showcase the Greater Bay Area integration and the practicality of utilising each city’s resources,” said Gary Ng Cheuk-yan, senior economist at Natixis Corporate and Investment Bank, suggesting that splitting the immense organisational requirements allowed each participating city to shoulder less of a burden.
Hong Kong is co-hosting this month’s extravaganza alongside Guangdong and Macau.
Authorities anticipate the Games could draw around 100,000 visitors, with Ng indicating their spending would heavily support the aviation, hospitality and catering sectors.
Tammy Wu, chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce’s retail and tourism committee, had previously said that if Hong Kong was able to prove a track record in hosting major sports events, it would significantly enhance tourism and help the struggling retail sector.
“The National Games, in particular, are anticipated to draw visitors from the mainland and abroad, providing a boost to the local economy through spending on dining, shopping and entertainment,” she said.