Dragon Boat Federation anchors global HQ in HK

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced on Wednesday that the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) has relocated its global headquarters to Hong Kong – a strategic move that clears the path for the World Dragon Boat Racing Championships to return to the city next year for the first time since 1997.

The IDBF, which comprises about 80 member federations worldwide, sees its return to the SAR as a significant milestone in its long-running quest for Olympic recognition for the ancient sport.

In a statement, InvestHK noted that the IDBF chose Hong Kong as its new home over its previous base in London, citing the SAR’s unique blend of cultural heritage and concrete commercial advantages.

It said that the federation was particularly drawn to Hong Kong’s streamlined business incorporation processes, competitive operating costs, simple and low-tax regime, robust legal safeguards and comprehensive government backing – all set against the SAR’s status as the birthplace of modern dragon boat racing.

Arnold Lau, Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, hailed the decision as a major vote of confidence in the SAR’s sporting ambitions.

"The IDBF's decision to anchor its global operations in Hong Kong strengthens the city's reputation as an international sports hub," he said.

"Our thriving sports economy, world-class infrastructure, and unparalleled connectivity to both the Chinese mainland and international markets create an ecosystem where global federations can pursue new growth opportunities while benefitting from Hong Kong's business-friendly environment and institutional stability."

Echoing that sentiment, IDBF President Claudio Schermi framed the relocation as both a homecoming and a fresh chapter for the sport.

"Dragon boat is back home. The IDBF has returned to Hong Kong, where it was founded 35 years ago," he said.

"To demonstrate our long-term commitment to the city, we will recruit dedicated full-time staff locally, leveraging Hong Kong's specialised talent pool to expand the sport's global reach and attract a broader demographic of participants worldwide."

The highlight of this renewed partnership will be the IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships, scheduled to take place in Hong Kong next year.

Organisers expect more than 5,000 athletes from around the globe to participate.

Edited by Aaron Tam ...