On 9 April 2026, we joined members of the Hong Kong SAR Legislative Council, government representatives, industry leaders and marine specialists at the Legislative Council Complex for the Hong Kong Yachting Industry Exchange Forum. Together, we explored a shared ambition: how to build a thriving yachting economy for Hong Kong.
The meeting brought policymakers together with people who work in the sector every day. Their experience provided a practical starting point for discussing what Hong Kong already does well, where improvements are needed and what stands in the way of progress.
Using the Kgotla dialogue method, we guided a brief, structured exchange around three simple questions: What should we keep? What should we improve? What should we get rid of? This approach helped participants bring different perspectives into the conversation and identify priorities for further action.
What we heard
What to keep: Participants highlighted Hong Kong’s maritime heritage, established industry expertise, strong safety standards and free-port advantages. They also valued continued dialogue between industry, government and Legislative Council members.
What to improve: Priorities included better berthing and waterfront facilities, stronger maintenance and refit services, training opportunities for young people, and a smoother experience for visiting yachts. Better coordination across government departments and closer connections within the Greater Bay Area were recurring themes.
What to get rid of: Participants called for unnecessary administrative hurdles, outdated requirements and fragmented ways of working to be addressed. The aim was to make Hong Kong more accessible and easier to navigate while maintaining safety and professional standards.
“A successful yachting economy needs more than marina berths. It depends on the connections between marine services, skilled people, tourism, waterfront communities and access to the sea.”
— The central message of the forum
The session laid the groundwork for further dialogue and a more coordinated industry agenda. For us at Kgotla, it demonstrated the value of bringing the right people together, listening carefully and turning shared experience into practical priorities.
We thank the Legislative Council members, government representatives and all industry participants for their openness and contributions to shaping Hong Kong’s yachting future.
