HKTB appoints Dane Cheng as executive director

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has appointed Dane Cheng Ting-yat as executive director, effective from 1 November.

Previously serving as the executive director of Hang Lung Properties from 2017 to 2019, Cheng is a veteran in the travel and tourism industry. Possessing more than 30 years of experience in the industry, he has held senior positions in general management, marketing, communications, and international affairs in various regions at Cathay Pacific.

Cheng succeeds Anthony Lau Chun-hon who stepped down from the post in July to pursue personal interests.

"I am confident that Cheng's profound knowledge of the Hong Kong, Mainland and international markets combined with his excellent management skills will help the HKTB continue to promote Hong Kong worldwide with effective marketing strategy," said Pang Yiu-kai, chairman at HKTB.

Pang also explained that Cheng will work with travel, trade, and other sectors in future. This will include the launch of a far-reaching global promotion to attract visitors from around the world back to Hong Kong and rebuild Hong Kong's reputation as one of the world's leading travel destinations.

Since June, ongoing protests against government policies have taken place, resulting in heavy hits to Hong Kong's tourism industry. The number of tourist arrivals has fallen significantly, notably during the first 15 days of October, which includes 'golden week', holiday period based around China's national day. Visits during this period dropped by 50% compared to the same timeframe last year.