Tourism boom: Financial Secretary Henry Tang and Hong Kong Disneyland Group Managing Director Don Robinson flank Disney's popular Mickey Mouse at a press conference to announce the September 12, 2005, opening day of the local theme park.

Hong Kong Disneyland's opening next September will be a driving force for the growth of tourism in Hong Kong, particularly family tourism, Financial Secretary Henry Tang says.

"Over a period of four decades, it is estimated Hong Kong Disneyland will generate economic benefits to Hong Kong of  $148 billion," he said.

Disney and the Hong Kong Government announced Hong Kong Disneyland would officially open on Monday, September 12, 2005.

"The announcement of the opening day marks a key milestone for the development of Hong Kong tourism and the economy as a whole," Mr Tang said.

"The project has already created 11,400 jobs during construction and another 18,000 are expected to be created in phases by the opening," he said.

The Financial Secretary noted that the project would be completed less than six years after its commencement in late 1999.

"Never has a Disneyland been built so fast, achieving the same quality as other Disney theme parks and resorts. And it will be completed within budget," Mr Tang said.

Theme park, two hotels to open next September

Disney also announced the admission price to Hong Kong Disneyland of $295 per adult during the week and $350 at weekends and peak days. Tickets for kids aged from three years to 11 years will be $210 and $250. Those aged under three years will be admitted free.

The admission ticket will include a full day's programme of fun and excitement  across Main Street USA and three themed lands - Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Adventureland.

At its opening, Hong Kong Disneyland will comprise a theme park and two hotels.

Under the agreement reached with Disney in November 1999, the Government is spending $22.45 billion, including infrastructure works, equity and loans. For details, click here.