Fireworks finale: Financial Secretary Henry Tang, Secretary for Economic  Development & Labour Stephen Ip, and the Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board Selina Chow at the launch of the last night of the international musical fireworks competition.

Tourism Board Chairman Selina Chow said the number of visitors in September was more than 1.47 million, representing an 8% of increase compared with the same period last year.

This is a record for the month of Septmber, she added.

Meanwhile, Financial Secretary Henry Tang said the series of events held under the Economic Relaunch Programme has successfully enhanced Hong Kong's attractiveness as a major tourist destination.

Speaking at the Hong Kong International Musical Fireworks Competition Finale at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre tonight, Mr Tang said: "Judging from the response, I am sure that a lot of people have visited Hong Kong and also they have boosted our local consumption.

"These events were also staged for the local community to enjoy, to help restore confidence and in particular to stimulate the local economy. The results are plain to see."

To further capitalise on the world's tourist market, he said, the Government is continuing to push ahead with our major infrastructural developments, such as Hong Kong Disneyland, the Tung Chung Cable Car system and the Hong Kong Wetland Park, which are all scheduled for completion in 2005.

In the near term, Hong Kong will launch the spectacular Harbour Lighting Show in December.

All these projects will continue to enhance Hong Kong's attractiveness as a major tourist destination and maintain its competitive edge in the region.