On December 3, 2025, the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Macau University of Science and Technology hosted a guest lecture featuring Mr. Steve Huen, Chairman of EGL Tours Holdings Limited and a prominent leader in Hong Kong's tourism industry. He shared his insights on the topic "50 Years of Change and the Future of Hong Kong's Tourism Industry." The event was attended by Dean Ben Goh and Assistant Professor Salott Chau from FHTM at MUST, together with over a hundred students and faculty members.
Group Photo
Mr. Huen systematically reviewed the development of Hong Kong's tourism sector since the 1970s. In the 1970s, outbound travel was a "luxury product" for citizens. Travel agencies primarily operated on a wholesale group model, focusing on long-haul sightseeing and shopping tours to destinations like Japan and Southeast Asia. The 1980s saw tourism become more popularized with rising incomes and the implementation of paid leave policies, leading to a significant increase in the number of travel agencies and a richer variety of products. The implementation of the Travel Agents Ordinance in 1985 established essential regulations for the industry. The 1990s marked a phase of diversification with the rise of the "tour-plus" concept. New products such as business travel, thematic tours, and MICE emerged, catering to segmented market needs. Entering the 21st century, the widespread adoption of smartphones and the growth of independent travel reshaped consumer habits. Traditional travel agencies transformed by integrating online and offline services, launching "flight + hotel" packages, and creating seasonal thematic activities.
Souvenir Presented
Mr. Huen shared experiences of navigating industry challenges. EGL Tours demonstrated resilience by being the first travel agency to resume tour groups to Okinawa after the 2011 Japan earthquake. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company reduced staff from 650 to 150 but strategically increased investment in IT. In 2020, it launched the e-commerce platform "EGL Market" and subsequently opened physical stores in Causeway Bay and Mong Kok, realizing a new retail model that integrates online and offline channels. He emphasized proactively addressing difficulties with "reverse thinking." Looking ahead, the demand for specialized tour packages is expected to rise. Innovation and high-quality service are key to future development.
Mr. Huen Delivered the Speech
During the Q&A session, Mr. Huen noted that while AI enhances efficiency and personalization, it cannot replace the core value of humanized service and emotional connection. Citing the strategy of "reinforcing IT instead of cutting back" during the pandemic, he highlighted the importance of adaptability and forward-looking investment. Regarding the impact of Sino-Japanese relations on tourism, he believes travel decisions are primarily driven by personal interest and experience, with limited influence from political factors. He suggested that companies should focus on improving service quality and meeting diverse customer needs through innovative products.
