This undated photo taken from the blog of Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po shows Chan (center) and social media influencers from the Chinese mainland visiting the recent 57th Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo.

The competitiveness of Hong Kong brands in both local and overseas markets will continue to improve by consistently innovating and closely following market trends, says Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po.

Writing in his Sunday blog, he gave the thumbs-up to the Temple Street night market, which has received remarkable feedback from the public since its debut on Dec 15.

Chan said he had recently invited several social media influencers from the Chinese mainland to visit the 57th Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo. The large-scale exhibition, with a rich history and distinctive local characteristics, focuses on promoting local brands

“Transforming a historically rich and culturally diverse street into a distinctive Hong Kong-style night market that brings together a variety of culinary delights, this project exemplifies the fusion of tradition and innovation,” he said, adding it’s expected to bring new allure to the region.

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The night market has some 30 food stalls offering traditional Hong Kong favorites like beef entrails and dim sum, as well as Turkish and Indian cuisine.

The market illustrates that many regions are abundant in high-quality tourism resources, Chan said. These regions can create a compelling attraction for tourists while providing locals with more appealing destinations by injecting fresh elements and concepts, revitalizing traditional features, and combining them with innovative experiences.

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Chan said he had recently invited several social media influencers from the Chinese mainland to visit the 57th Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo. The large-scale exhibition, with a rich history and distinctive local characteristics, focuses on promoting local brands. From electronics and household products to culinary delights and beverages, it attracted a significant number of local residents and mainland visitors. It’s therefore evident that everyone shares a genuine appreciation for the unique “flavor of Hong Kong” showcased at the event.

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Chan said such events will continuously innovate and make breakthroughs that are key to driving the ever-evolving and leading-edge characteristics of Hong Kong. They’re also crucial in enticing local consumers and tourists to keep coming back for more.

Chan firmly believes that the competitiveness of Hong Kong brands will continue to improve in both the local and overseas markets if they can consistently innovate, stay in tune with market changes, understand customer needs, and prioritize user experience.

Contact the writer at grace@chinadailyhk.com