Muslims in Hong Kong welcome Halal Food Festival as latest step towards inclusivity

Hong Kong’s Muslim community has warmly welcomed the city’s first outdoor Halal Food Festival held in Tsim Sha Tsui, marking a significant step towards greater inclusivity and recognition, South China Morning Post reported.

The event, co-organised by the M.E.L.T. Ethnic Minority Resources Centre and the Hong Kong Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community, showcased the growing variety of halal cuisine available in the city.

Currently, around 280 halal restaurants operate in Hong Kong, with plans to reach 500 by the end of 2025, according to Saeed Uddin, chairman of the trustees. Legislator Vincent Cheng highlighted the importance of embracing the local Muslim population of over 300,000 residents while attracting Muslim tourists.

The Kowloon Shangri-La hotel also featured halal-certified dishes, reflecting Hong Kong’s efforts to become more Muslim-friendly. These initiatives align with the government’s goal to boost tourism and business ties with Middle Eastern markets, enhancing the city’s appeal as a diverse and inclusive travel destination.