Hong Kong’s commerce chief, Algernon Yau, has highlighted the success of the Greater Bay Area (GBA) initiative, noting the rising trend of Hongkongers traveling to mainland China and Macau for shopping and entertainment. From May last year to April, Hong Kong residents made nearly 10 trips each to these areas, facilitated by improved infrastructure, such as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong high-speed railway. This trend underscores the effectiveness of GBA development in fostering economic activity. However, it has also posed challenges to local small and medium enterprises due to changing spending patterns. In response, the government has implemented measures to support these businesses and plans to boost local consumption by hosting around 210 mega events through 2024, with over $140.8 million (HK$1.1 billion) allocated to promote tourism and events in Hong Kong.