Hong Kong’s Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) contributed over HK$134.5 billion in 2023, accounting for 4.6% of the city’s GDP, and employed around 226,000 people. Far from being a peripheral sector, the creative economy has become a strategic growth driver, supported strongly by government initiatives. Today, Hong Kong is expanding beyond its traditional strengths in film and music into gaming, eSports, and digital content—areas that are growing rapidly and opening up new opportunities for global investors.
Hong Kong’s Creative Economy at a Glance
The government has established the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)—formerly CreateHK—to spearhead policy and funding for creative industries. Key initiatives include the Film Development Fund (FDF), which supports local productions, and Cyberport, a digital tech hub that incubates startups in gaming, AR/VR, and digital content.
By blending its role as both a Cultural Hub and a Business Hub, Hong Kong offers a unique ecosystem where creativity and commerce intersect, positioning the city competitively in the region.
Entertainment Industry
Hong Kong has long been recognized as a powerhouse in film and television, and its industry continues to thrive thanks to co-productions with Mainland China and the Greater Bay Area (GBA). These partnerships allow Hong Kong productions to reach hundreds of millions of viewers with relative ease.
Beyond film, the city is also a vibrant destination for international concerts and music festivals, which not only contribute to the entertainment economy but also drive tourism and hospitality growth.
Gaming and eSports
Hong Kong is emerging as one of Asia’s leading eSports hubs. Events such as the Esports Festival Hong Kong have attracted global players and audiences, putting the city firmly on the international gaming map.
Meanwhile, Cyberport and the Hong Kong Science Park provide vital support for startups in gaming and immersive technologies like XR and VR. Together, these institutions are building an innovation ecosystem that connects Hong Kong with both Mainland China and international markets.
Digital Content & New Media
Shifts in consumer behavior are driving rapid growth in Hong Kong’s digital content and new media sector. Streaming platforms are reaching audiences not only locally but also across Mainland China, while influencers, digital creators, and animation/VFX studios are playing increasingly important roles in advertising, entertainment, and brand storytelling.
This expansion is creating new opportunities for investors to tap into a market where creative talent meets advanced technology.
Opportunities for Thai and Global Investors
For entrepreneurs looking to expand into the region, Hong Kong offers multiple entry points into the creative economy:
- Film and TV Co-Productions – Partnering with Hong Kong studios to access China and GBA audiences.
- Game Development and eSports – Investing in studios or hosting regional tournaments in Hong Kong.
- Digital Marketing and Content Creation – Using Hong Kong as a base to create and distribute content globally.
Partnerships with Innovation Hubs – Leveraging networks, resources, and funding from Cyberport, Science Park, and CCIDA.
Key Takeaways
Hong Kong’s creative economy is on a growth trajectory, spanning film, music, gaming, eSports, and digital media. Backed by strong government support and rising consumer demand, the sector is creating new opportunities for investors worldwide.
For Thai and global businesses, Hong Kong is evolving from being purely a Financial Hub to becoming a Creative Hub with immense potential. Entering this sector today could be the key to unlocking opportunities in China and scaling to global markets.
Hong Kong is no longer just a financial hub, but a creative hub with global reach. InvestinAsia can support your expansion into this fast-growing industry — let’s get started today.
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