#China #Hong Kong #Sports Industry #Urban Development #International Events

International Sports Industry Salon Highlights

On June 20, Hong Kong hosted the "Global Connectivity • Industrial Interaction" International Sports Industry Salon, an event that brought together over 50 key figures from the sports sector. The gathering was organized under the auspices of the National Business Daily and NBD Think Tank Hong Kong Center, with support from various local organizations, including the Chengdu Sports Federation and Hong Kong Commercial Daily.

The salon served as a platform for extensive discussions centered on leveraging the sports industry to boost urban development and enhance cooperative initiatives between regions. This thematic focus on connectivity and collaboration attracted industry leaders, experts, and innovators keen on exploring how sports can act as a catalyst for urban progress.

Focus on Kai Tak Sports Park

At the event, Darren Burden, the Chief Operating Officer of the Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong, offered insights into the design philosophy behind this significant sports complex. He described it as a breakthrough in local sports infrastructure, noting its dual role as both a venue for the 15th National Games of the People's Republic of China and a burgeoning icon for entertainment in the region. Burden emphasized that the Kai Tak Sports Park embodies not only athletic excellence but also reflects Hong Kong's cultural identity.

Additionally, Ismael Martinez Merchan from Populous, a renowned sports architecture firm, presented on the integration of local cultural nuances within the sports park's design. This melding of local and global elements aims to create a space that resonates with both local residents and international visitors, enhancing Hong Kong's profile as a premier destination for sporting events.

Chengdu World Games Promotion

Recognizing the significance of major sports events in city branding, the salon included a featured segment on the upcoming World Games 2025 in Chengdu. Geely Holding Group, one of the event's official partners, shared insights into the potential of these games to showcase Chengdu's culture and innovation on a global stage. The Head of Brand Strategy at Geely remarked, "The World Games are not only a platform for athletic competition but also a unique opportunity to spotlight a city's cultural capital and creative capabilities."

Participants from Chengdu's AG E-sports Club and the Chengdu Happy Sports Development Group also unveiled their strategies for growth and success in the competitive sports market, emphasizing the role of sports in community engagement and economic stimulation.

Panel Discussions and Insights

A panel discussion at the event delved into how to elevate a city's visibility through international sports events. Experts reached a consensus that the sports sector is pivotal in driving not only economic growth but also cultural enrichment and social change. Their discussions underscored a shared vision of using sports as a bridge to foster connections and enhance collaboration among different regions.

The successful execution of this International Sports Industry Salon marks a essential step toward establishing ongoing dialogues among Chengdu's diverse industries and the global community. The organizers expressed their commitment to hosting similar high-caliber forums in the future, aiming to spark continuous collaboration and innovation across borders.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, events such as this salon not only spotlight the dynamics of local sports but also amplify the conversation about how these industries can function as vehicles for broader social and urban development.