The 2025 Policy Address proposes a trial program to allow pet dogs to enter selected eateries, which marks a welcome and long-overdue shift in attitudes. It’s recognition of a significant transformation in Hong Kong’s social fabric. Yet, while this move is positive, it is reactive rather than proactive; a concession, not a strategy. If Hong Kong aims to fully harness the economic potential of its growing pet-owning population, it must take a few steps forward from sporadic permissions to a comprehensive, cross-departmental policy agenda aimed at unlocking the untapped spending power of pet owners. This is a “latent market” waiting to be served, and the time to act is now.

Amid declining birth rates and an aging population, pets have become more than companions; they are family members. This “humanization” of pets has propelled a booming industry that spans premium food, advanced veterinary care, grooming, insurance, and even technology. The key to success lies not merely in high rates of pet ownership but in societal integration: Pets are welcomed across a wide spectrum of daily life, from public transport to recreational spaces. This cultural embrace enables these markets to thrive. In Hong Kong, it is becoming increasingly common to see pet owners labelling themselves as the “parents” of their beloved charges.

Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the growing pet economy. While official statistics are unavailable, it is estimated that the city is home to around 430,000 dogs, with their owners representing a significant and affluent consumer demographic. Despite their strong willingness to spend, Hong Kong offers few opportunities for these owners to enjoy quality time with their pets outside the home. Singapore, for example, boasts larger and more numerous off-leash parks, while Shenzhen plans to designate 11 parks as pet-friendly zones. In contrast, Hong Kong’s pet owners contend with limited green spaces, strict leash laws, and a scarcity of accessible venues, particularly for those without private transport. The problem lies not in a lack of demand but in the absence of adequate infrastructure and inclusivity.

Efforts should aim to address the full spectrum of challenges faced by pet owners, from dining out to transportation and public access, ensuring solutions are both comprehensive and thoughtful. It’s time to move past viewing pets as a logistical challenge and start embracing them as valuable contributors to a more vibrant, inclusive and prosperous Hong Kong

The numbers tell a compelling story. The local pet economy is expected to reach HK$6.2 billion ($800 million) this year, driven by two key groups — younger adults, particularly those born after the 1990s, who are navigating economic and social pressures, and seniors seeking companionship. Yet, Hong Kong still lags behind more developed pet economies. Japan’s pet industry, valued at 1.9 trillion yen ($12.5 billion), excels in areas such as senior pet care, while Singapore’s $111.9 million pet economy has diversified into services like pet tourism. Hong Kong, despite evident demand, lacks the ecosystem to fully cultivate the pet economy’s potential.

This can be illustrated by the trial program that aims to allow pets in restaurants, according to the Policy Address. A pet owner’s journey to enjoy a simple meal out is fraught with logistical obstacles. First, they must find a licensed pet-friendly restaurant. If they lack a car, their transportation options are limited to expensive services like Uber Pet, as public transport remains largely off-limits. Pet-friendly malls, such as K11 Musea or The Mills, are few and not conveniently located for the many owners who live in the New Territories. Once they arrive, they face different mall bylaws, such as mandatory pet strollers, and restaurant-specific rules on timing and seating. This arduous journey underscores a fundamental truth: Hong Kong has yet to embrace true inclusivity for pets and their owners.

When shaping policies, the goal should go beyond merely accommodating the needs of dog owners to actively fostering the growth of the pet economy. This starts with housing policies: Relaxing restrictions on dog ownership in public housing for responsible pet owners could pave the way for the development of pet-friendly communities. Urban planning must also adapt, prioritizing the creation of high-quality pet parks and introducing “pet-friendly hours” in public spaces, while addressing the concerns of non-pet owners through clear regulations and public education initiatives. While such changes may take time to implement, the Civil Service Bureau, as the largest employer in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, could take the lead by introducing a “bring-your-dog-to-work day” in government offices. This would send a strong and symbolic message about the government’s commitment to building a truly pet-friendly city.

Transportation is another key area for improvement. Many European cities allow dogs on subways without restrictions, while closer to home, Taipei has introduced pet-friendly carriages on specific metro lines during off-peak hours, making travel with pets both convenient and affordable. This model could serve as a reference for the MTR Corp when it considers further relaxing its pet-friendly policies. Additionally, enhancing infrastructure, such as modernizing quarantine facilities and upgrading veterinary services to international standards, would not only make the city more appealing to pet owners but also position Hong Kong as a leading hub for high-quality, pet-related health services.

These initiatives have the potential to do far more than improve the lives of pet owners; they could unlock significant economic opportunities. By fostering a more inclusive city, we can drive domestic spending and encourage landlords and food and beverage business operators to invest in pet-friendly renovations. However, implementing change should go beyond merely revising the Food Business Regulation. Efforts should aim to address the full spectrum of challenges faced by pet owners, from dining out to transportation and public access, ensuring solutions are both comprehensive and thoughtful. It’s time to move past viewing pets as a logistical challenge and start embracing them as valuable contributors to a more vibrant, inclusive and prosperous Hong Kong.

The author is a senior lecturer of marketing at the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.