West Kowloon Cultural District Authority's Deficit Rises to HK$998 Million
The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority reported a larger deficit for the year ending March 30, reaching HK$998 million, though the authority anticipates increased income through a residential project tender.
According to the South China Morning Post, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, which manages Hong Kong's arts hub, recorded an expanded deficit for the 2025-26 financial year. The deficit reached HK$998 million (U$127 million) in the period ending March 30, compared to HK$769 million in the equivalent period the previous year. This rise was primarily attributed to increased operating expenses associated with the preparation for the opening of the new WestK Performing Arts Centre, which is scheduled for autumn 2027.
Revenue for 2025-26 increased by 19 percent to HK$768 million, as detailed in a document presented to the Legislative Council on Tuesday. This revenue growth was driven by increases in ticket sales, sponsorship, and the sale of intellectual property and creative merchandise.
Betty Fung Ching Suk-yee, the authority's CEO, stated that the deficit remains manageable, noting that it is below the HK$1 billion threshold. She further indicated that greater revenue is expected in the near future, citing upfront fees from the tender process for a residential development project.