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As the world of esports continues to evolve, Hong Kong stands on the brink of a significant transformation in its competitive gaming sector. With a growing interest in team-based video gaming, industry experts believe the region is poised for a substantial uplift in esports activities.
Dickson Lee, the Asia-Pacific head of SteelSeries, a prominent manufacturer of gaming peripherals, indicates that the foundations for this growth are already being laid.
Lee highlights that while Hong Kong has not yet reached its full potential as an esports market, the surge in government support and educational initiatives points to a promising future.
Various projects focused on esports education, training facilities, and collaborations with educational institutions are emerging, enhancing the local gaming ecosystem.
Government initiatives and investment
The government of Hong Kong has taken significant strides in nurturing the esports environment. In the 2018-2019 budget, a substantial investment of HK$100 million (approximately US$12.9 million) was allocated to Cyberport, a tech hub designed to catalyze growth in the esports arena.
This funding supported the establishment of the CyberArcade, a venue that has successfully hosted numerous events, fostering both local and international competitions.
Over the past three years, the CyberArcade has been a hub for 21 tournaments, including six that attracted international participants.
This investment not only boosts the visibility of esports in Hong Kong but also provides a platform for local talent to shine on a larger stage.
Local success stories and funding
A notable achievement for Hong Kong occurred during the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, where a local team clinched a silver medal.
This triumph led to further investment from the Hong Kong Sports Institute, which allocated funds to support 12 players as part of their development scheme for 2024-2025. Initiatives like these highlight the increasing recognition of esports as a legitimate sport within the region.
Market potential and player rankings
According to data from Esports Earnings, players hailing from Hong Kong currently rank 48th globally, having amassed over US$5.4 million in prize money from a total of 901 tournaments. The most popular games among these competitors include Fortnite, League of Legends, Arena of Valor, and Street Fighter 6, showcasing the diverse gaming interests of local players.
Despite the current stage of development, the international market for gaming gear is projected to grow significantly. A report from Research and Markets estimates the value of this market to reach US$4.74 billion in 2023, with expectations to climb to US$5.72 billion by 2030. This growth underscores the potential for Hong Kong to carve out its niche in the larger esports ecosystem.
Future outlook for Hong Kong esports
Looking ahead, Lee emphasizes that while growth in China over the next five years will be steady rather than explosive, Hong Kong’s esports market holds immense promise. As more individuals engage with gaming and begin to appreciate the thrill of watching esports broadcasts, the region is likely to witness a robust increase in participation and viewership.
The landscape for esports in Hong Kong is rapidly evolving, with substantial governmental backing and a burgeoning community of gamers. The next decade may very well see Hong Kong emerge as a significant player in the global esports arena, driven by local talent and international events.
