Despite the fact that the city is a global financial center, Hong Kong culture still holds its own among its neighbors. Its pro-freedom attitude, for example, is rooted in its history as a free and independent colony. While this may seem to be counter-intuitive to mainland Chinese culture, Hong Kongers have been united by a “Lion Rock Spirit” since the 1970s manufacturing boom. Their core values, meanwhile, include the rule of law, human rights, and democracy.
The Hong Kong government is trying to increase tourism in the city. It has created a joint venture with the American company Walt Disney to build a theme park that will attract over five million visitors in its first year of operation. By 2020, the government hopes to attract 10 million visitors to the island. But is Hong Kong’s economy a stable one? Is there room for growth in the local tourism industry? How does Hong Kong maintain its rich culture while encouraging more foreign investment?
The former British colony’s infrastructure was impressive. It provides for a well-developed land, sea, and air transportation system. Hong Kong boasts more than one thousand kilometers of paved roads and 34 kilometers of electrified railways. Its railway system is one of the most efficient in the world and connects the city to the mainland Chinese railways through the Kowlon Peninsula. The city’s railway system is also improving, with construction on three new lines starting in 1998.
The Hong Kong government holds its first elections for Legco. This Bill of Rights overrides all other laws and the pro-democracy parties win a majority. The government of China appoints a 150-strong Preparatory Committee to oversee the transfer. Its membership consists of over half of the city’s business elite. This makes it an ideal place for a small business. After the 1997 handover, Tung Chee-hwa is appointed as the first chief executive.
The film industry has enjoyed global success, and directors such as Wong Kar-wai and Jackie Chan have received international recognition for their films. Despite a mid-90s slump, Hong Kong has long been a hub for film and martial artists. Stars like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan are known internationally, as are local actors and actresses. Many of Hong Kong’s actors and actresses have made the transition to Hollywood.
In addition to the garment industry, Hong Kong’s economy is driven by the service industry. Many multinational corporations operate in the city. Hong Kong’s largest exports are consumer goods and light manufactures. The city’s economy depends on the Chinese mainland for raw materials, food, and large manufacturing establishments. The service sector accounts for nearly 26 percent of the city’s GDP. However, the city has seen a surge in high-tech industries over the past decade. However, this segment remains small compared to its manufacturing counterpart.
In addition to the traditional Cantonese language, there are also native languages in Hong Kong. The oldest generation of the city, the Waitau people, speak this language in their walled villages. The language is related to Cantonese, and the first woman conductor was Wing-sie Yip, who broadened the base of classical music enthusiasts in Hong Kong. For example, the city’s opera industry has become the largest in the world.