Hong Kong continues to assert itself as a global powerhouse for international business events, fueled by its vibrant energy, cutting-edge infrastructure, and unparalleled service quality.
The city’s momentum from a robust return of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) business in 2024 has carried strongly into 2025. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has confirmed a packed calendar featuring 56 large-scale international MICE events in 2025, including 16 inaugural conventions—clear evidence of the city’s enduring appeal among global event planners.
A Resilient Recovery and Growth Trajectory
Hong Kong’s MICE sector is a critical pillar of its tourism and economic strategy. According to the Hong Kong Tourism Board and official government reports, the city welcomed 1.42 million overnight MICE visitors in 2024, a 10% increase over the previous year. Approximately half of these visitors originated from overseas, and MICE visitors consistently outnumber general tourists by a margin of 23% in terms of international attendance.
For 2025, organizers anticipate attracting around 260,000 delegates across a wide range of sectors, including fintech, innovation, technology, medical sciences, and aviation, reflecting Hong Kong’s diverse business ecosystem and its strategic position as a gateway between China and the world.
Marilyn Tham, General Manager of MICE & Cruise at HKTB, emphasized the city’s commitment to delivering exceptional convention experiences:
“Hong Kong continues to affirm its status as a premier destination for international conventions. With world-class infrastructure and dynamic mega events, we ensure unparalleled experiences for delegates and organizers alike.”
Strategic National Development and Sectoral Focus
Hong Kong’s MICE growth aligns closely with the national 14th Five-Year Plan, which outlines the development of eight key international sectoral centres including finance, innovation and technology, trade, shipping, aviation, legal and dispute resolution, cultural exchanges, and intellectual property trade. Medical sciences have also been emphasized recently as a key sector for development.
The Hong Kong government supports these initiatives through various agencies including the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC), ensuring the city’s business event infrastructure and talent pool remain competitive.
The Hong Kong Convention Ambassadors Programme
Since its inception in 2020, the Hong Kong Convention Ambassadors Programme has become a vital tool in promoting Hong Kong’s MICE capabilities. Now in its third term, the programme includes over 170 influential business and academic leaders from Hong Kong and Mainland China. These ambassadors leverage their networks to attract high-profile conferences and business events to the city.
The HKTB credits the ambassadors’ efforts with securing a diverse portfolio of events, reinforcing Hong Kong’s reputation as a preferred venue across multiple industries. This public-private partnership exemplifies the city’s collaborative approach to sustaining and expanding its MICE sector.
Breaking New Ground: Inaugural Conventions and Mega Events
Hong Kong is not only successfully hosting returning events but also pioneering new global conferences that enhance its status as a MICE powerhouse.
One standout event was Consensus Hong Kong 2025, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in February. Regarded as the “Super Bowl of Blockchain” and the “World Cup of Web3,” this event marked the largest gathering of crypto professionals outside North America. Drawing nearly 10,000 attendees from 100 countries, it showcased Hong Kong’s cutting-edge fintech ecosystem and entrepreneurial spirit.
The event’s success was further elevated by culturally rich side experiences—such as an opening ceremony at Cloud 39 rooftop ballroom and a horse-racing night at the iconic Hong Kong Jockey Club—demonstrating the city’s unique ability to blend business with local flair.
Michael Lau, Chairman of Consensus Hong Kong, remarked:
“The overwhelming community engagement and over 350 side events are testament to Hong Kong’s vibrant fintech culture and supportive ecosystem. The HKTB’s backing was crucial in making this event a resounding success.”
Another important new event was the Sports Law Mega Event 2025, which combined the Sports Law Conference and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Lawyers Sports Meet. The four-day forum attracted more than 350 legal professionals and highlighted Hong Kong’s legal infrastructure supporting the burgeoning sports industry under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.
Professor Lu Song of the China Commission of Arbitration for Sports praised Hong Kong’s capabilities in managing high-level sports arbitration, while organizers underscored the city’s world-class amenities, including hotels, transport, cuisine, and its iconic Victoria Harbour, as key factors for attracting international professionals.
Returning Events with Expanding Influence
The 5th annual Technology for Change Asia event held in March 2025 at the Hopewell Hotel further exemplified Hong Kong’s growing stature as a tech innovation hub. Hosting over 700 participants and 70-plus speakers, the conference tackled cutting-edge topics such as quantum computing, ethical AI, climate tech, and smart mobility.
Notable speakers included Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, Lan Kwai Fong Group Chairman Allan Zeman, Li Auto CTO Yan Xie, and internationally renowned physicist Brian Cox.
Asif Chaudhury, Managing Director of Asia at The Economist Group, emphasized:
“Hong Kong’s dynamic environment fosters technological advancement that empowers businesses and individuals alike, making it an ideal venue for dialogues on commercial and societal change.”
Professor Brian Cox also highlighted Hong Kong as “a genuine crossroads where ideas, people, and cultures converge,” underscoring the city’s unique positioning for fostering innovation through diverse interactions.
The Greater Bay Area and Future Opportunities
Hong Kong’s integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) provides additional momentum for MICE development. The GBA initiative aims to enhance connectivity, innovation, and economic synergy across the region, making Hong Kong a critical hub for international business events and investment.
Emerging opportunities in the GBA, particularly in technology and sustainable development, are expected to generate further demand for Hong Kong’s convention facilities and expertise, attracting more global players to the city.
Conclusion: Hong Kong – The World’s Meeting Place Where Conventions Achieve More
Hong Kong’s success in attracting and delivering large-scale, diverse, and innovative international conventions in 2025 underscores its status as a world-class MICE destination. Supported by government policies, strategic partnerships, and a forward-looking approach to technology and business sectors, Hong Kong continues to offer unparalleled value to event organizers and delegates.
From pioneering blockchain summits to legal sports forums and tech innovation conferences, the city demonstrates an exceptional ability to evolve with global trends and meet the ever-changing needs of the international business community.
As Marilyn Tham succinctly puts it, Hong Kong is the place “where conventions simply achieve more.”
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