Hong Kong's tourism industry is pivoting from its traditional focus on shopping and dining towards nature and cultural experiences, spurred by declining visitor spending. This transition presents new opportunities for growth but also raises concerns about potential damage to the region's natural assets if ecotourism practices are not carefully managed. Preserving environmental integrity is crucial for the long-term success of this new tourism model.

For decades, Hong Kong’s tourism success rested on a clear formula: shopping, dining and urban experiences. That model is losing momentum. Overnight visitor spending has fallen from around HK$193 billion (US$24.6 billion) in 2015 to HK$128 billion last year. Shopping has declined sharply as spending shifts to sightseeing and experiences. Travellers are no longer coming only to consume – they seek a connection to nature, culture and place. This transition presents a clear opportunity. Hong Kong’s...