Lan Kwai Fong Group reported a record 105,000 visitors for Halloween, marking a significant increase from the previous year's 80,000. Allan Zeman, the group's chairman, stated that this was the busiest Halloween the entertainment district had ever experienced, with the largest crowd on the final Saturday of the inaugural month-long Halloween program. Zeman expressed satisfaction with the Tourism Board's initiative, which attracted visitors from Hong Kong, mainland China, and around the world. Locals accounted for about 50 to 60 percent of the crowd, with mainland visitors at around 20 to 30 percent, while a notable number of international tourists came specifically to experience Lan Kwai Fong. Bars and restaurants saw their business nearly double compared to a normal Saturday, with other businesses experiencing a 40 to 50 percent rise in revenue. According to Zeman, the opening of the Huanggang Port and extended clearance hours at Shenzhen Bay control point contributed significantly, with facial recognition technology allowing for quick clearance in just two minutes.
The success of Halloween in Lan Kwai Fong is seen as a boost for Hong Kong's entertainment and tourism sector, which has faced challenges in recent years due to various factors including political unrest and the pandemic. By leveraging its popular nightlife district, Hong Kong aims to attract more international visitors and revitalize the city's tourism industry. The event also highlights the city’s efforts to modernize border control to enhance visitor experience.