Key facts
- A new licence allowing dogs in Hong Kong restaurants will launch in July.
- 1,000 operators were selected via ballot to participate in the scheme.
- Restaurant owners anticipate a potential business increase of up to 20%.
- The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department received 1,615 eligible applications.
- Successful applicants expect higher weekend patronage from local dog owners.
Hong Kong restaurants that have secured a new licence allowing dogs are anticipating a significant boost to their businesses, potentially up to 20%. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) conducted a ballot on Friday, selecting 1,000 operators from 1,615 eligible applications for the scheme, which commences in July.
Aki Chan, co-owner of Uluru Cafe in Wan Chai, expressed optimism, expecting business to increase by 15 to 20%, particularly on weekends. He noted that dog owners often patronise local establishments rather than travelling abroad. Chan also mentioned that his cafe had previously faced penalties for allowing pets and hopes the new licence will help recover business to previous levels.
Lawmaker Chan Hoi-yan, chairman of the Panel on Food Safety and Environmental Hygiene, officiated the ballot draw, which was observed by the public and eager applicants.