Core Viewpoint - The sudden closure of the Hong Kong chain restaurant giant Jing Le Group reflects a broader trend of restaurant closures in the region, with over 20 chain brands shutting down in the past six months, including long-established establishments [3][4]. Group 1: Closure Trend - A wave of restaurant closures is sweeping through Hong Kong, with notable brands like "Sea Emperor Congee" and "Golden Milk Pudding" announcing their shutdowns due to deteriorating operating conditions and financial crises [4][5][6]. - International brands are also exiting the market, such as the Thai dessert brand After You Dessert Café and the Japanese ramen brand "Kintan," which closed their last locations in Hong Kong [8][10]. - The survival challenges are particularly acute for small and medium-sized restaurants, with many reporting rapid closures due to poor business conditions [11][12]. Group 2: Causes of Closure - High rental costs are a significant challenge for restaurant operators in Hong Kong, with many citing rent increases as a primary reason for their closures [14][15]. - Changes in consumer behavior, including a trend of Hong Kong residents shopping and dining in mainland China, have negatively impacted local restaurant revenues. For instance, the number of Hong Kong residents traveling to mainland China surged by over 50% compared to 2023 [18][19]. - The average spending of visitors to Hong Kong has decreased, with overall tourist spending dropping by 20% from the previous year, further squeezing the local dining market [19][20]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The Hong Kong restaurant market is experiencing an oversupply, with the number of restaurants remaining stable compared to 2023 but exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 11% [22][26]. - This oversupply, combined with declining demand due to consumer spending shifts, has led to intensified competition and a wave of closures [27][28]. - Experts predict that up to 2,000 more restaurants may need to close to realign with the market conditions that existed before the pandemic, indicating a necessary market correction process [28].