Rocks legends the Rolling Stones will be unable to play in Hong Kong next month due to scheduling difficulties.

Making the announcement tonight, InvestHK Director-General of Investment Promotion Mike Rowse said that while organisers are disappointed at the news, he hoped the Stones could play here at a later date.

Mr Rowse said although fees and arrangements had been finalised with the band, actual signing of contracts had been delayed due to scheduling difficulties. The Stones were due to play on the Mainland after their show at HK Harbour Fest.

Despite the setback, Mr Rowse said the festival will still be a mammoth event having attracted some of the world's top musical acts, such as Prince, Santana and Jose Carreras, along with many local and regional favourites.