Hong Kong Unveils ‘Night Vibes’ to Rejuvenate Post-Pandemic Economy

In an attempt to invigorate its night economy after the pandemic, the Hong Kong government will be launching a grand campaign called “Night Vibes Hong Kong’ on Sept. 14. The Chief Executive John Lee, announced this development ahead of his weekly executive council meeting.

The campaign, eagerly anticipated by many businesses, is designed to infuse fresh vitality into the city’s night market. Shopping malls are expected to extend their hours and offer a variety of incentives and coupons to attract customers. The strategy is set to be unveiled next week by Financial Secretary Paul Chan at the West Kowloon Cultural District.

“Night Vibes Hong Kong” will take place in three stages, aligning with the Mid-Autumn Festival in September, Christmas in December, and the Lunar New Year holiday in February. The campaign’s aim is to encourage residents to venture out at night to patron local businesses, thereby stimulating the night economy.

Businesses such as shops, restaurants, and night-life related professions including taxi drivers and performers stand to gain from this initiative. The campaign will differ from the previous ‘Happy Hong Kong’ initiative, focusing instead on fortifying the city’s night market and aiding various economic sectors in their recovery process.

Major property developers like Sun Hung Kai Properties, Hang Lung Properties, New World Development, and Sino Group have expressed support for this plan.

Maureen Fung, executive director of Sun Hung Kai Properties, highlighted the significance of the night economy, noting that evening dine-in services constitute over one-third of the total revenue for their malls.