Scholars suggest sports, trade shows to boost Hengqin amid ‘lack of sufficient foot traffic’
ab26 A s the Guangdong-Macau In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin marks the fifth anniversary of its establishment, some scholars have acknowledged that its first phase of development indeed “lacked sufficient foot traffic,” adding that hosting major sporting events and trade shows is an effective way to boost visitor numbers in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area. During public broadcaster TDM’s radio program on Macau-Hengqin cooperation, a listener suggested that sports events could drive tourism between the two regions, citing the successful combination of the “Craft Market” and the FIBA 3×3 international basketball tournament held in Hengqin in early April. She noted that the event attracted athletes from various countries, helping showcase Hengqin’s development while revitalizing the local economy. Pointing out that hotel occupancy in Hengqin remains low, she said the arrival of athletes has stimulated consumption, while also serving as an entry point for the inter...