Having relocated its headquarters from London, the IDBF has established its global operations in Hong Kong under the Government's initiative introduced in the 2025 Policy Address to position the city as a world-class sports hub. The IDBF's decision to choose Hong Kong as its global home was driven by a combination of strategic heritage and tangible business advantages. The city offers an exceptional environment for international governance, characterised by a straightforward incorporation process, competitive operational costs, a simple and low tax system, a robust legal framework, comprehensive government support measures, and recognition as the birthplace of the modern dragon boat movement.
Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion of InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau said, "The IDBF's decision to anchor its global operations in Hong Kong strengthens the city's reputation as an international sports hub. 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."
The President of the IDBF, Mr Claudio Schermi, described the move as both a homecoming and a new beginning. He said, "Dragon boat is back home. The IDBF has returned to Hong Kong, where it was founded 35 years ago. 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." He emphasised that while the sport is rooted in ancient Chinese tradition, the IDBF is committed to its role as an open, inclusive, and truly international governing body.
The IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships are set to return to Hong Kong next year for the first time since 1997, and are expected to attract over 5 000 athletes from across the globe and generate notable economic, tourism, and sporting benefits for the city. With around 80 member federations worldwide, the IDBF's return reinforces Hong Kong's position as the global hub of this time-honoured sport, and marks an important step in IDBF's long-term pursuit of Olympic recognition.
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