Can Dogs Save Hong Kong's Dining Scene?

Summary

Bloomberg Opinion columnist Juliana Liu discusses Hong Kong's struggling restaurant industry, which faces falling receipts, high costs, and competition from mainland China. A new government scheme allowing dogs in restaurants is a positive step but insufficient to revive the sector. Liu argues more comprehensive support is needed.

• Hong Kong restaurant receipts fell 8% in 2024 vs 2018, with Chinese restaurants down 26%.
• Residents increasingly cross into mainland China for cheaper weekend dining, hurting local demand.
• Tourist arrivals to Hong Kong remain about a quarter below 2018 levels.
• The government is licensing hundreds of pet-friendly restaurants to boost the industry.
• Pets are banned from eating at tables and must remain leashed near owners.
• Liu sees the policy as a needed first step but says deeper challenges remain.
• High operating costs and a talent shortage compound the sector's struggles.