Tribute paid to Tung Chee-hwa for transformative Hong Kong visit policy
Mainland Chinese are commemorating the late Tung Chee-hwa, Hong Kong's first chief executive, for launching the Individual Visit Scheme in 2003. The program, which began with a few Guangdong cities, now covers 59 cities and has multiplied mainland arrivals to Hong Kong more than fivefold. Former financial secretary Henry Tang noted the scheme was introduced after the Sars outbreak to revive cross-border exchanges and boost the local economy.
The Individual Visit Scheme expanded from a few Guangdong municipalities to 59 cities nationwide, reaching as far as Urumqi. This policy drove a fivefold surge in mainland visitor numbers to Hong Kong.
Introduced following the Sars outbreak, the initiative was embedded within the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement to secure Beijing's endorsement. Former financial secretary Henry Tang noted that the scheme revived cross-border ties and significantly aided the local economy.
The tribute underscores the policy's lasting economic and social legacy. It could reinforce public appreciation for cross-border integration, potentially influencing future tourism and economic policies. The scheme's success may serve as a benchmark for balancing visitor influx with local infrastructure and social dynamics, affecting both Hong Kong residents and mainland travelers.