15th National Games: A winning strategy for Hong Kong and the GBA

Editor's note: Decision Makers is a global platform for decision makers to share their insights on events shaping today's world. Rosanna Law is the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

The 15th National Games, which is being co-hosted by southern China's Guangdong Province, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Macao Special Administrative Region, is far more than a sporting event; it is a powerful catalyst for regional integration and a strategic investment in Hong Kong's future. This unprecedented tripartite collaboration delivers profound value that extends far beyond the sports arena, creating a legacy that will resonate for generations by fundamentally enriching our city's economy, sports culture, and its pivotal role within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

A model for GBA integration

First and foremost, this collaborative model is a live-action pilot for the ambitious vision of GBA integration. Hosting a complex event of this scale necessitates seamless cross-boundary coordination, testing and streamlining the flow of people, goods and services in real-time.

Imagine the logistical feats required: athletes and equipment moving efficiently between venues, and spectators using integrated ticketing and transport to experience competitions across all three locations. The protocols and partnerships forged through this process are invaluable. They move the GBA concept from a policy blueprint into a tangible reality, setting a practical precedent for even closer collaborations in sectors like trade, innovation and emergency response. This cooperation fosters the deeper mutual understanding and administrative cohesion essential for the region to compete on a global stage, proving that "one country, two systems" can be the foundation for powerful synergy.

Building a sustainable sports economy in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, the legacy is transformative and deliberately engineered to be long-term. The National Games acts as a powerful accelerant for the professionalization of our sports industry. It's not just about the two weeks of competition; it's about cultivating the entire ecosystem. This means creating careers beyond the athletes themselves – in sports and venue management, marketing, event logistics and broadcasting. The demand for these roles will build a skilled workforce that remains long after the National Games conclude.

This development has been perfectly timed with the commissioning of our world-class Kai Tak Sports Park. Hosting premier events like the Hong Kong Sevens has already proven its capability. As a central hub for the National Games, hosting events like rugby sevens, handball and fencing, it provides our home athletes with a monumental stage. The roar of the local crowd, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, creates the perfect environment for breakthrough performances that will captivate the city and inspire a new generation.

This cycle of hosting mega-events in a premier venue nurtures a sustainable ecosystem for the sports industry and private enterprises, fostering diverse opportunities in sports tourism, city branding and business services.

The powerful synergy of 'events + tourism'

The strategic intersection of sports and tourism unlocks immense and immediate economic potential. The National Games provide a unique platform to enrich Hong Kong's appeal through innovative "events + travel" packages. Developed by travel operators across the three regions, these packages combine event tickets with curated experiences – a day at the fencing competition followed by a leisure tour to a scenic island, or a rugby sevens weekend paired with a culinary journey through Hong Kong's Michelin-starred scene.

These offerings are strategically designed to attract both Chinese mainland and international visitors, encouraging them to attend competitions while experiencing the cultural and scenic diversity of the entire GBA. This approach is crucial for transforming day-trippers into overnight guests, significantly boosting per-capita spending in our hospitality, retail and catering sectors. The goal is to generate immediate revenue while simultaneously marketing Hong Kong and the GBA as a dynamic, must-visit destination for international leisure and business travelers.

Forging a distinctive global sports identity

Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to cultivate a sports culture that is both globally resonant and deeply integrated within the GBA. Our identity as a city where East meets West is our greatest asset. We can offer a sporting atmosphere that is uniquely cosmopolitan – a blend of intense competition and vibrant festival, seen in the success of the Hong Kong Sevens and the electrifying atmosphere of the LIV Golf tournament.

The overwhelming community support for the National Games – evident in enthusiastic spectators, popular merchandising and a strong volunteer turnout – demonstrates a public eager to embrace this identity. This shared experience strengthens social cohesion and reinforces a collective pride, not just in Hong Kong, but in our role within the wider GBA family.

Ultimately, the National Games is a winning strategy for all. They elevate Hong Kong's athletic achievements, cement our reputation as a world-class events capital and deepen the bonds of regional cooperation. The memory of sporting glory and the infrastructure of collaboration left behind will ensure a more vibrant, prosperous, and active future for Hong Kong and the GBA for years to come.

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