Hong Kong Travelers in Mainland China: Scale, Destinations, and Expenditure Patterns
Title:
Hong Kong Travelers in Mainland China: Scale, Destinations, and Expenditure Patterns
Author(s):
Xijie Gao, Jing Han, Zheng Song
Year of Publishing:
2025
Publisher:
Working Paper
Abstract:

This report presents evidence on the scale, destinations, and expenditure patterns of Hong Kong travelers in Mainland China. Official statistics indicate that the number of trips by Hong Kong residents to Mainland China, as well as their expenditures outside Hong Kong, have merely returned to pre-COVID levels. We then use aggregate statistics from AlipayHK for a more detailed investigation of consumption patterns. Our analysis reveals a growing integration of crossborder consumption markets, reflected in the increasing number of trips to Mainland China, a broader range of destinations, and a more balanced distribution of expenditures across Mainland cities. Furthermore, aggregate statistics from AlipayHK users highlight distinct differences in consumption patterns between Mainland China and Hong Kong. Notably, among AlipayHK users who have made transactions in Mainland China, services account for approximately half of total expenditures, whereas retail—which dominates spending in Hong Kong—represents only 26%. Using a simple model, we construct a relative competitiveness index from the perspective of Hong Kong residents. The results indicate that life services in Mainland China hold the greatest competitive advantage over Hong Kong, while Hong Kong remains more competitive in retail and the food and beverage sectors.

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