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‘Goodbye and good luck’: Hong Kong souvenirs such as Star Ferry baubles, tram magnets among hot items for those leaving city

  • Shops that used to cater mainly to expats say more locals are buying gifts for departing Hongkongers
  • Most popular farewell gifts include Christmas tree decorations with ‘uniquely Hong Kong elements’

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Souvenirs and cards of sentimental value in Hong Kong are popular with people leaving the city. Photo: Jonathan Wong

Sales of Hong Kong-themed souvenirs, from tram magnets to baubles with miniature red taxis, Star Ferry vessels and dim sum, have picked up and businesses say it is all thanks to the spike in Hongkongers emigrating.

Where previously it was mainly tourists and departing expatriates who looked for knick-knacks to remember their time in the city, shop owners have seen more local customers shopping for farewell gifts over the past two years.

Beijing’s imposition of the national security law on Hong Kong in 2020 sparked a wave of emigration, with countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia easing their entry rules for Hongkongers.

More recently, the fifth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic also led to departures, especially of expatriates unhappy with the city’s ongoing tight pandemic restrictions.

Claire Yates, founder of Lion Rock Press, which sells Hong Kong-inspired gifts, books and stationery, said she has seen rising demand for gifts meant for those leaving Hong Kong.

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