The first direct flights between Hong Kong and the Gold Coast will begin in January.

Tourism Minister Kate Jones said Hong Kong Airlines would begin with three flights a week, with connections to Cairns.

She said the new flights built on strong growth in tourism numbers from China.

'It will bring in [an] additional 5,000 travellers to Queensland and generate more than $10 million for our local economy,' she said.

'This is great news. Hong Kong Airlines will operate its very first Australian service, so very exciting and great news and a great vote of confidence in the Gold Coast.'

Meanwhile, regional airline JETGO has announced new routes between the Gold Coast and Townsville, stopping in Rockhampton.

The airline said its 36-seater planes would fly between the cities three times a week, subject to final regulatory approval.

Flights are expected to start at the end of September.