PATA re-established its Hong Kong chapter earlier today – on the eve of the association’s executive board meeting in Hong Kong.

João Manuel Costa Antunes, PATA chairman, said: “The PATA family is very glad to see the re-opening of the Hong Kong Chapter. Hong Kong is one of the most dynamic cities in the world and a mature tourism destination. It has tremendous potential to contribute in a more structured way to the association and its goal of (encouraging) responsible development of the Asia-Pacific travel and tourism (industry).”

Linda Song, executive director of Plaza Premium Lounge Management, and one of three PATA executive board members based in Hong Kong, has been installed as chair of the new PATA Hong Kong Chapter.

“Knowledge sharing is important in elevating the quality of our local tourism service industries, while preserving cultural heritage in an environmentally sensitive way,” she said.

“Our coalition of travel and tourism specialists is ideally placed to support balanced and value adding progress on vital tourism infrastructure, such as the third runway at (Chek Lap Kok Airport).”

Martin J Craigs, PATA CEO, said: “I am delighted to welcome the revitalised Hong Kong PATA Chapter back into the family circle. This is an important time for Hong Kong tourism as it seeks to strike the right balance and ensure tourism remains an overwhelming force for good as in the rest of the Asia-Pacific region.”

Formally adopted in 1957, the PATA Chapter network currently includes 41 chapters and six student chapters across America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.