Speech by SCST at opening ceremony of International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Expo Asia 2026 (English only)
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President and CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, IAAPA, Mr Jakob Wahl, Chair of the IAAPA Global Board of Directors, Ms Luciana Periales, Mr Jack Chan (Executive Director and Vice President of IAAPA Asia Pacific), distinguished guests, tourism industry friends, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Hong Kong for the opening of the IAAPA Expo Asia 2026. I still need a script unlike Jack just now. I shouldn't be because I am among friends here. This is not the first IAAPA Expo I have attended. But still, I think I should stick to the speech because I have so much to share with you.
First of all, I am deeply honoured for Hong Kong to host this premier industry gathering once again. Your return is a powerful endorsement of Hong Kong as Asia-Pacific's leading tourism and exhibition hub.
Hong Kong's tourism momentum speaks for itself. In 2025, we welcomed 49.9 million visitors - I'd like to call it 50 million - a 12 per cent increase year on year. In the first five months of 2026 alone, we received about 23 million arrivals, a remarkable 14 per cent rise over the same period last year. We are now on track to receive 53.8 million visitors in 2026, representing an 8 per cent annual growth. These numbers represent Hong Kong's enduring appeal and the strength of our recovery as a world-class destination.
This year's theme, "Pursue the Wonder", resonates deeply with Hong Kong's spirit. Here in Hong Kong, wonder is not an abstract idea - it is woven into the very fabric of our urban life. With over 300 exhibitors from around the globe, this Expo stands as the definitive platform for exploring the future of immersive and sustainable attractions.
As your host, Hong Kong itself is a destination built on wonder. At Hong Kong Disneyland, beloved stories come to life through spectacular shows and immersive lands, bringing joy to families from around the world. Having just celebrated its 20th anniversary, the park is now moving ahead with a unique Pixar-themed experience debuting next year - using cutting-edge technologies to take visitors on a fun and magical journey. A Marvel-themed area is also in the pipeline, set to further position the park as a must-visit destination for fans of heroic adventures.
At Ocean Park, adventure meets conservation. It is currently home to six magnificent and giant pandas and many other exotic animals that capture the hearts of visitors. A brand-new adventure zone, set for completion in 2028, will feature thrilling experiences such as bungee jumping and ziplining, adding a new dimension to the park's offerings. By pairing heart-pumping rides with unforgettable animal encounters, a visit to Ocean Park will turn a day of pure fun into a passion for conservation.
Beyond our renowned theme parks, iconic landmarks - including Ngong Ping 360, the West Kowloon Cultural District, the Peak Tram and our legendary Victoria Harbour, honoured as one of the world's must-visit places - offer timeless and captivating experiences.
On top of all these attractions, Hong Kong also offers a dynamic calendar of mega events that deliver wonder at every turn. The Kai Tak Sports Park is a shining example: Since opening last March, it has hosted over 120 international and local events and attracted over 7 million visitors. I know that some of you should have been there, for Coldplay, concerts, or for the international Rugby Sevens tournament. This vibrant events landscape - featuring a continuous lineup of international sports, cultural festivals, and entertainment spectacles - constantly renews the reasons to visit Hong Kong.
Ladies and gentlemen, today's Expo is an invaluable platform for collaboration. Here, we can imagine, innovate, merge with each other and build the future of wonder together. Let us seize the opportunity to share inspiration and create more joyful experiences for millions around the world.
I wish the Expo a resounding success, and all of you a wonderful stay in our vibrant city, Hong Kong. Thank you.
Ends/Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Issued at HKT 14:45
Issued at HKT 14:45
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