Art, Music & Design Archives

DesignInspire opens today, showcasing over 260 local and global design brands

Free entry for industry professionals and the public from tomorrow

– Renowned design master Alan Chan and emerging artist Chilai Howard present BOTTEGA HONG KONG and TINY STUDIO respectively, spotlighting inspirational dialogue between Hong Kong and Italian creatives
– French design authority Maison&Objet returns with an upgraded presence under the new banner Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025, featuring two signature pavilions: Design Factory and Design Showcase, and business lounge Le Club
– Designers and exhibitors from places including the Chinese Mainland, Belgium, Czechia, France, Italy, Macao and Taiwan, appear alongside local showcases by the Hong Kong Design Centre, Hong Kong Design Institute and others, demonstrating the convergence of creativity and culture
– 13 InnoTalks sessions and 20 creative workshops will be held during the fair, covering sustainable design, retro aesthetics and craftsmanship, fostering professional exchange and building public engagement

Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC), DesignInspire 2025 opens today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and runs until 6 December. From tomorrow until Saturday, the exhibition will welcome industry professionals and the public with free admission. The event brings together over 260 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions, providing an opportunity for design enthusiasts, buyers and members of the public to explore how design connects culture, industry and everyday life through exhibitions, dialogues and workshops.

A global platform weaving creativity and commerce
The HKTDC’s commitment to promoting the development of Hong Kong’s cultural and creative industries continues, cementing the city’s role as an east-meets-west centre for international cultural exchange. Since 2017, DesignInspire has provided a platform for designers, brands and creative institutions to connect with potential buyers from around the world, unlocking design-led business opportunities. Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “This year’s DesignInspire unites global creative and business talents, presenting major international collaborations that underscore the event’s mission as a world-class design platform. Artistic exchange is not only where ideas and inspiration are born – it also provides the opportunity to build new partnerships. With its unique position as a global business hub, Hong Kong is ideally placed to foster international exchanges and collaboration.”

A key highlight of this year’s DesignInspire is the triumphant return of French lifestyle and design authority Maison&Objet* which presents the upgraded Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025*, bringing together 16 internationally renowned designers and artisans and more than 200 brands. Centred on the concept of “Crossroads,” the curation presents a cross-cultural design language spanning dialogue, sustainable innovation and avant-garde craft. Design Factory, curated by four international curators, features over 200 pieces that envision future living through materials, crafts and narrative, including works by French trend hunter Elizabeth Leriche and the co-founders of COLLECTIBLE, Clélie Debehault and Liv Vaisberg. Meanwhile, Design Showcase connects seven design capitals – Dubai, Hong Kong, Milan, New Delhi, Paris, Seoul and Shanghai – each interpreting diverse lifestyles and spatial imaginations through a distinctive urban context. Italian brand Moroso presents special showcase, Resonant Landscapes, a public art installation curated by Creative Director Patrizia Moroso that fuses sculptural form and sensory experience to create a poetic encounter between art and design.

Philippe Delhomme, Executive Board Chairman of Maison&Objet, said: “Thanks CCIDA and DesignInspire for the continuous support. After our first showcase in Hong Kong last year, we received positive feedback and attention. This year’s upgraded Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025 nearly doubles in scale. We will showcase the future of interior design and we look forward to gathering with global industry peers and potential buyers to explore deeper collaborations.”

In its mission to connect global creativity and foster cross-industry collaboration, DesignInspire 2025 features international pavilions from places including the Chinese Mainland, Belgium, Czechia, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, South Korea, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates, presenting a diversity of design viewpoints and cultural dialogues. The Czech Pavilion gathers Prague-based brands Artisème, Braasi Industry and Pigmentarium, showcasing Bohemian crystal and porcelain craftsmanship, handcrafted urban backpacks and artistic fragrances, and fusing centuries-old crafts with contemporary sensibilities through light, texture and scent. In addition, this year’s event features several first-time exhibitors, including the Hefei Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, Ikatan Arsitek Indonesia and the Macao Product Design Association, to showcase creative works that highlight local characteristics.

Beyond international showcases, a renowned designer and an emerging artist anchor the show’s cross-cultural narrative. BOTTEGA HONG KONG, with Alan Chan as Creative Director, along with UNVEIL LIMITED and Su Chang Design Research Office, reimagines everyday aesthetics through an “open carton” inspired by Italy’s alimentari and Hong Kong’s “si dor” neighbourhood stores. The pavilion showcases Hong Kong and Italian talent, including anothermountainman; Didi Ng, the first Hong Kong finalist of the LOEWE Foundation Craft Prize; Italian fashion brand FERRAGAMO; Italian furniture design powerhouse Moroso; glass artist Lucia Massari, known for pieces created for Dolce & Gabbana Casa; Alessandro Stabile Design Studio, one of Italy’s top emerging designers; and David Leung, photographer and artist. Together they are throwing the spotlight on Hong Kong-Italy design sensibilities and cultural narratives.

Curated by rising artist Chilai Howard, TINY STUDIO takes inspiration from Hong Kong’s street stall culture to shape 12 studio pavilions with unique designs, bringing fashion designer Angus Tsui, renowned illustrator Pen So, local fragrance brand BeCandle, acclaimed music producer Edward Chan, and Kelly Cheuk and Kwokin from the music video and visual production studio (Re). The set-up hosts creators from both Hong Kong and Italy working across the fields of digital art, sound, scent, sculpture and hands-on workshops, inviting visitors into immersive interactions that capture the creative energy between the two places.

This year, DesignInspire has partnered with Tatler to present “The A.I. Atelier”, an experience zone that blends design and technology. Supported by Gen.T and powered by Preface—a tech-enabling company founded by Tommy Lo, an outstanding young honouree from the Tatler Generation Tomorrow Community—this zone explores creativity through artificial intelligence (AI). It analyses visitors’ unique design spirit and styles, generating personalised visual creations on the spot. This gives audiences a first-hand experience of how AI is radically reshaping design language and forging a new era of intelligent synergy between design and technology.

Local exhibitors also unveil new designs, including GERI, an intelligent textile technology company, which collaborates with graphic design master Kan Tai-keung to leverage DesignInspire debuting a new series of smart handbags as a seamless fusion of innovation and craftsmanship.

Global creativity converges to expand collaborative horizons
To connect local and international cultural and creative design communities, foster collaboration, and pave the way for future industry development, DesignInspire is hosting an exclusive VIP preview today. The event brings together leading creative and cultural organisations from Hong Kong and overseas, major institutions across various sectors, international enterprises and design service users and buyers. The fair aims to catalyse new business partnerships through face-to-face networking.

This year’s participating companies span department stores, retail and residential development, hospitality and lifestyle brands, interior design practices and food and beverage groups, including Yves Saint Laurent Beauty from France, L’Oreal Luxe, Thai retail leaders The Mall Group and Central Retail, India’s Indian Institute of Interior Designers (IIID) and Bombay Shirt Company. Also in attendance are design and brand-strategy firms from Singapore and Europe such as Cameron Woo Design, First Sight International and Saguez & Partners. From the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan, buyers include Eslite Spectrum Corporation, CHECK Hospitality Management, Haiguihai Group and Xiaochuniang Fast Food Co., Ltd., all of which are looking to leverage DesignInspire as a platform to explore cross-border collaboration opportunities that reflect the continued growth of cross-disciplinary design in the Asian market.

InnoTalks explores diverse themes leading a new wave of design ideas
To foster professional dialogue and knowledge sharing, the InnoTalks series returns with 13 sessions this year, convening creators and experts to discuss sensory experiences and business models. Highlights include “Time Warp – When Nostalgia Meets the Future”, where local studios Nopaperstudio and Hoopla unpack how retro elements and craft vocabularies evolve into contemporary visual languages, and why the trend for nostalgia resonates in a fast-paced digital era.

Another session, “Future development potential of Art Toy IP”, sees international designer Winson Ma analyse industry trends and explore how designer toys forge unique value chains across art, collecting and commerce, covering licensing, production and promotion models that turn creative characters into marketable cultural icons.

Other InnoTalks sessions span topics including multisensory design, sustainable interiors and more, running alongside the Maison&Objet Exhibitors’ Forum and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries D Mark Presentation. A series of creative workshops will be open to the public, where participants can experience hands-on art creation, from cyanotype printing, light sculpture and stone painting to miniature art, paper craft and candle-making. Many of the workshops draw inspiration from Hong Kong motifs, integrating local elements into creative experiences.

Harnessing the power of design and art to foster community inclusion
DesignInspire is also collaborating with St. James’ Creation under St. James’ Settlement to promote artistic development for people in rehabilitation, introducing “MusicCLAY – Noided Music Making Experience Workshop” – a hands-on experience combining clay art with electronic noise music. In addition, the Hong Kong YMCA’s the DOOOR arts space joins the exhibition to integrate art into the community.

Running concurrently with DesignInspire are three important HKTDC-led events – Business of IP Asia Forum, Entrepreneur Day and Start-up Express: International Edition 2025 – taking place from 4 to 5 December at the HKCEC, helping to create further synergies and business opportunities. One-on-one business matching will also be available to connect participants with design service firms and innovation companies worldwide.

* Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)

Photo download: https://bit.ly/4iv3RSs

DesignInspire details

Date:	4 to 6 December, 2025 (Thursday to Saturday)
Time:	4 and 5 December 9:30am-7:30pm 6 December 9:30am-7pm
Venue:	Hall 3DE, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Fee:	Free admission with registration
Event website:	https://designinspire.hktdc.com

Media enquiries
For enquiries, please contact:
Raconteur PR:

Betsy Tse	Tel: (852) 9742 7338	Email: betsytse@raconteur.hk
Clementine Cheung	Tel: (852) 9248 0876	Email: clementinecheung@raconteur.hk

HKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:

Katy Wong	Tel: (852) 2584 4524	Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org
Stanley So	Tel: (852) 2584 4395	Email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.org

HKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en

About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.

CCIDA’s website: www.ccidahk.gov.hk.

About Business of Design Week
Business of Design Week (BODW), Asia’s premier annual event on design, innovation and brands since 2002, is organised by Hong Kong Design Centre and gathers some of the world’s foremost design masters, brand leaders and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong as well as overseas, driving discourse on the value of design and innovation to inspire global audiences and explore new business opportunities.

Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

Stage set for DesignInspire with VIP preview on 3 December and free entry for industry and public over next three days

The 2025 DesignInspire will be held from 3 to 6 December. The opening day will feature an exclusive VIP preview, followed by free admission over the next three days for industry professionals and the public. The event will feature multiple photo-worthy installations and immersive zones, allowing visitors to experience design and art through a multi-sensory journey
Parisian design authority Maison&Objet returns once again under the identity Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025, expanding its exhibition area in 2025 and bringing an even richer showcase of international creativity
International design master Alan Chan and emerging artist Chilai Howard design two cross-cultural collaborative spaces, BOTTEGA HONG KONG and TINY STUDIO, presenting a fusion of Hong Kong design excellence with Italy’s outstanding creative vision

HONG KONG, Nov 26, 2025 – (ACN Newswire) – Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), co-organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), DesignInspire returns from 3 to 6 December 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The opening day will feature an exclusive VIP preview, while the following three days will be open to industry professionals and the public free of charge.

This year’s DesignInspire runs under the theme “Where Connections Spark Inspiration”, bringing together diverse creative forces from around the world. Maison&Objet, the Strategic Partner of the exhibition, returns with even more grandeur, expanding its footprint at the event by nearly double. Meanwhile, renowned international designer Alan Chan and emerging artist Chilai Howard have each designed cross – cultural showcases in BOTTEGA HONG KONG and TINY STUDIO, presenting a creative dialogue between east and west. Held concurrently with DesignInspire, Business of Design Week (BODW) 2025 Summit, organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre, runs from 3 to 5 December at the HKCEC. This year’s event welcomes Italy as its partner country, strengthening international collaboration and cultural exchange within the global design community.

HKTDC Assistant Executive Director Anna Cheung said: “DesignInspire has long been a flagship event in Hong Kong’s cultural and creative calendar, driving the growth of our creative industries and strengthening the connection between local designers and the global design community. This year’s edition brings together over 250 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions, alongside two iconic figures in the field – internationally acclaimed designer Alan Chan and award-winning emerging artist Chilai Howard – who each design thematic pavilions that capture a dialogue between Hong Kong’s vibrant creative energy and Italy’s refined design culture. The exhibition invites visitors to experience the synergy and inspiration born from an east-west cultural exchange, reaffirming Hong Kong’s unique role as a centre for international creative and artistic collaboration.

“Through a series of exhibitions and networking activities, we aim to foster deeper collaboration between the creative, design and business sectors – connecting in particular with potential buyers from the hospitality, real estate, luxury dining and cultural tourism industries – and to unlock new business opportunities powered by design. At the same time, we hope to engage the public in appreciating creativity and design, and to raise broader recognition of the creative industry’s contribution to our society’s culture and economy.”

Immerse in creativity from leading design brand

Internationally renowned lifestyle event Maison&Objet returns alongside DesignInspire under a refreshed identity, Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025*, bringing together 16 internationally celebrated designers and curators and over 200 brands, artisans and artists to create a world-class platform for creative dialogue. Centred on the theme “Crossroads”, the 3 core sections deliver essential design elements: “Design Factory” brings Inspiration, “Design Showcase” leads visitors into a path of Discovery, while Encounters will happen inside “Le Club” a business lounge dedicated for design players.

Design Factory, an immersive pavilion will focus on sustainability, material innovation and cultural storytelling, offering visionary design solutions for the contemporary world and will feature four distinctive curatorial projects by forward-thinking creative teams, such as Belgian designer Lionel Jadot and Thai bamboo artist Korakot Aromdee. Another pavilion, Design Showcase, will extend Maison&Objet’s creative footprint to seven design capitals and present diverse expressions of design excellence that address the evolving needs of multifunctional living, workspace and hospitality environments. Featured creators include renowned French designer and sculptor Hubert Le Gall; renowned Hong Kong architect and interior designer Steve Leung; and Paul Bonlarron, recipient of the Maison&Objet Design Showcase Award 2025, co-presented by France’s Mobilier National and Maison&Objet.

Design masters present selection blending Hong Kong and Italian styles

Hong Kong’s design vision also shines with originality and creativity. BOTTEGA HONG KONG, designed by international design master Alan Chan along with UNVEIL and Su Chang Design Research Office, draws inspiration from Italy’s alimentari (boutique grocery stores) and Hong Kong’s local “si dor” corner shop culture. The pavilion’s structure resembles an opened giant carton, blending raw elegance with futuristic minimalism. Its interior, drawing on the shop traditions of both Italy and Hong Kong, features 15 brands from the two places showcasing furniture, lifestyle goods and design collectibles. Participants include Hong Kong creative icon anothermountainman; Didi Ng, the first Hong Kong finalist of the LOEWE Foundation Craft Prize; Italian furniture design powerhouses Moroso and Minotti; and Venetian glass artist Lucia Massari, celebrated for her creations for Dolce & Gabbana Casa.

A standout highlight is the collaboration between Francesco Maglia, Italy’s century-old handmade umbrella brand, and Hong Kong heritage umbrella manufacturer Leung So Kee, creating a bespoke umbrella adorned with the skylines of Hong Kong and Italy – a perfect representation of the craftsmanship dialogue between the two places. Separately, Alan Chan reimagines Giorgio Armani’s 2010 gown with Hong Kong’s old “Chung Leung Ching Kee” feather duster, blending folk craftsmanship with Milanese couture. This fusion celebrates heritage, transcending borders to honour artisanal legacies.

TINY STUDIO, curated by emerging artist Chilai Howard, brings together 12 design collectives from Hong Kong and Italy. Within 12 individual studios, artists present cross-disciplinary works blending design, art and technology, offering their personal interpretations of the two cultures. Inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic street stalls from the 1980s and 1990s, the exhibition pays homage to the city’s vibrant street culture. Its kinetic roof moves gently like waves, creating a fluid visual rhythm. Visitors can explore interactive experiences encompassing digital art, music creation, sculpture, fragrance design, tattoo illustration and live weaving demonstrations, immersing themselves in the creative synergy between Italy and Hong Kong. Highlights include a collaborative sculpture by Hong Kong artist Danny Lee Chin-fai and Italian sculptor Francesca Bernardini; an audiovisual piece co-created by acclaimed music producer Edward Chan and Kelly Cheuk and Kwokin from the music video and visual production studio (Re); and a showcase of selected works by illustrator Pen So.

Global design brands showcase at the exhibition

DesignInspire continues to serve as a catalyst for international business and cooperation. The event welcomes global pavilions from countries and regions including the Chinese Mainland, Czechia, Macao and Taiwan, offering audiences a kaleidoscope of design perspectives and cultural dialogue. The Czech Pavilion will celebrate the world-famous Bohemian glass tradition, showcasing exquisite artistry and creativity. The SHOP Zone will gather curated design and art pieces available for collection and purchase, while Hong Kong fragrance brand Floriography joins as DesignInspire’s first official “Scent Partner”, bringing a sensory layer of Hong Kong’s olfactory aesthetics to the fair.

Several leading Hong Kong design institutions will also participate at DesignInspire. The Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI) will present student works and its Motifx project featuring home décor combining elements of traditional Chinese motifs and contemporary aesthetics. The Hong Kong Design Centre will showcase over 200 DFA Design for Asia Award-winning pieces, demonstrating the city’s design excellence. Local exhibitors will also unveil new designs, including GERI, an intelligent textile technology company, which will collaborate with graphic design master Kan Tai-keung to launch a new series of smart handbags, debuting at the fair as a seamless fusion of innovation and craftsmanship.

During the exhibition, the InnoTalks series will feature 14 sessions of inspiring dialogue, bringing together internationally renowned designers and industry experts to explore forward-looking topics such as creative collectibles, IP development, AI applications and inclusive design. The programme will offer participants valuable practical insights and industry perspectives, while providing opportunities to expand professional networks and stay ahead of the latest trends and collaboration opportunities in the creative sector.

To further inspire public interest in design and art, DesignInspire will offer a programme of creative workshops covering multi-sensory creation, art-tech integration, sustainable design and craftsmanship, allowing participants to experience the beauty of creative exploration at first hand.

In addition, three other key events – the Business of IP Asia Forum, Entrepreneur Day and Start-up Express: International Edition 2025 – will be held concurrently at the HKCEC on 4 and 5 December, providing broader business networking and matching opportunities. Participants can also engage in one-on-one business matching sessions connecting design service companies with innovative enterprises from across the region to explore new partnerships.

DesignInspire Details

Date:	3-6 December 2025 (Wednesday to Saturday) 3 December (VIP Preview – by invitation only) 4-6 December (open to public)
Time:	3 December 2pm to 7pm
	4-5 December 9:30am to 7:30pm
	6 December 9:30am to 7pm
Venue:	Halls 3C–E, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Fee:	Free admission with registration
Event website:	https://designinspire.hktdc.com/en/

*The event is sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA).

Photo download: https://bit.ly/3XMv1e3

Media enquiries

For enquiries, please contact:

Raconteur PR:

Betsy Tse	Tel: (852) 9742 7338	Email: betsytse@raconteur.hk
Clementine Cheung	Tel: (852) 9248 0876	Email: clementinecheung@raconteur.hk

HKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:

Katy Wong	Tel: (852) 2584 4524	Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org
Stanley So	Tel: (852) 2584 4395	Email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.org

HKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)

The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.

CCIDA’s website: www.ccidahk.gov.hk.

About Business of Design Week

Business of Design Week (BODW), Asia’s premier annual event on design, innovation and brands since 2002, is organised by Hong Kong Design Centre and gathers some of the world’s foremost design masters, brand leaders and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong as well as overseas, driving discourse on the value of design and innovation to inspire global audiences and explore new business opportunities.

The 33rd Hong Kong International Optical Fair attracts some 12,000 buyers

– Smart technology and sustainability take centre stage

The Hong Kong International Optical Fair came to a successful conclusion today, attracting some 12,000 buyers keen on sourcing and procurement
Buyers from outside Hong Kong primarily came from the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, India, Japan, Korea, the US, and ASEAN countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand
Fair products focused on key market trends — “smart technology”, “sustainability”, “silver healthcare” and “functionality & design” — featuring the industry’s latest achievements in technological innovation and sustainability
Results of the 25th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition showcased award-winning entries from local designers

7 November 2025, The 33rd Hong Kong International Optical Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA), concluded successfully today. The three-day fair attracted some 12,000 buyers from 92 countries and regions. Buyers from outside Hong Kong primarily came from the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, India, Japan, Korea, the US, and ASEAN countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand, reinforcing the fair’s role as an important platform to connect with global buyers.

Jenny Koo, Deputy Executive Director, HKTDC, said: “As a premier sourcing platform for the industry, the Optical Fair brought the world’s leading eyewear brands together with innovative technologies and eco-friendly designs. The event featured a series of compelling activities including industry seminars, design competition, and eyewear parades, all of which play pivotal roles in fostering collaboration and networking within the industry.”

Smart technology and sustainability emerge as new industry drivers
The fair, themed “Bright Eyes • New Horizons”, showcased contemporary products that align with key market trends — “smart technology”, “sustainability”, “silver healthcare” and “functionality & design” — highlighting the industry’s achievements in technological innovation and sustainable development. Exhibitors introduced various products that blend functionality and aesthetics by integrating elements such as artificial intelligence and eco-friendly materials, catering to diverse market needs and further enhancing the industry’s competitiveness in the international market.

The spotlighted “Brand Name Gallery” showcased over 200 renowned brands from around the world, including BIG HORN and P+US from Hong Kong, MINIMA from France, STEPPER from Germany, United Colors of Benetton from Italy, Masunaga since 1905 and MATSUDA from Japan, Nano Vista from Spain, Ted Baker from the United Kingdom, together with new participating brands such as SUEEY.MASADA from Chinese Mainland, JULBO and SABINE BE from France, SASAKI and PTOLEMY48 from Japan, NIMOME from Korea, Collections Marcus Marienfeld from Switzerland, THRASHER from the US, showcasing distinctive designs.

Exhibitors focused on the latest trends and demonstrated smart products with innovative technologies, further expanding the potential of smart glasses used in daily life and professional sectors. Shenzhen MUEDO Technology Co., Ltd. from the Chinese Mainland presented its U10 Dual-Mode Smart Reading Glasses, featuring auto-focusing lenses and Hi-Fi stereo sound to target the silver market. Overseas Sales Manager Helen Zhuang stated: “We received inquiries from buyers in Italy, Germany, the US, India, among others, and are currently negotiating a collaboration with an Italian buyer with an expected order value of US$500,000.”

In response to the rise of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, many eyewear brands have launched sustainable glasses featuring recycled materials. Hong Kong exhibitor Winky International Limited offers collections of eco-friendly sunglasses and optical frames made from biodegradable materials. Founder and Creative Director Kevin Ching said that the fair’s three thematic labels, including the “Green Solutions Suppliers” label, helped attract buyers to their booth to examine products and learn about the company’s sustainability vision. He said they have connected with 20 buyers from Indonesia, Vietnam, South Africa, and the Chinese Mainland, including a potential order of US$1 million from an Israeli agent with 260 retail points.

The Optical Fair attracted buyers from around the world, including prominent international buyers such as the Mondottica Group representative for Australia, Brazil’s VISTA IMPORT, leading European industry players like the Asia-Pacific representative of France’s Kering Eyewear, Germany’s Fielmann Group, and the Asia representative of UK’s Specsavers, India’s eyewear giant Lenskart, Indonesia’s Grand Optik, Singapore’s Capitol Optical, and the United States’ Euro Vision International.

Caitlin Northup, Vice President of Operations for US-based wholesale distributor Eyenavision, said “We aim to explore new suppliers and strengthen relationships with existing suppliers by attending the Optical Fair. We met with 20 exhibitors and have already placed onsite orders totaling US$500,000 with two exhibitors from the Chinese Mainland for lenses.”

Optisero, S.L. from Spain is a family business with a 30-year history in the optical industry. Joint Administrator Antonia Rivas said: “We have attended the Optical Fair every year for the past twenty years to source optical cases and lenses. This year, we connected with 20 potential suppliers at the fair. Our overall sourcing budget for suppliers we met at the fair will be around EUR2 million annually.”

Eyewear Design Competition showcases new design talents
The HKTDC and the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association co-organised “The 25th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition”, to promote the diversification and internationalisation of local eyewear designs. The competition aimed to identify promising and emerging design talents and promote innovative design and technology within the local eyewear industry. Themed “Blending Tradition and Technology”, the competition featured an Open Group as well as a Student Group. The award ceremony was held on the first day of the fair, with winning and shortlisted entries displayed throughout the event. The Open Group champion, “Be With You,” designed by Fung Wai-kuen, automatically alerts family members via bluetooth-connected smartphones when the wearer falls or presses the emergency button, significantly reducing accident risks for the elderly. This design also won the “Made-to-Sell Award”. In the Student Group, Shum Chui-shan’s “Unique Perspectives” won first place. The design incorporates the auspicious butterfly symbol from traditional Chinese culture, utilising tie-dye techniques and a detachable structure which enhances the design’s three-dimensional effect and functionality.

The fair continues to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model which seamlessly integrates online and offline elements to extend business opportunities. Exhibitors and buyers can connect and arrange meetings through the Click2Match online smart business-matching platform until 14 November. During the physical event, buyers can also use the Scan2Match function on the HKTDC Marketplace App to scan exhibitors’ QR codes to bookmark favourite suppliers, access product details and interactive floor plans, and make product enquiries — enabling engagement with exhibitors before and after the fair to continue their sourcing journey.

Photo download: https://bit.ly/47ucgSv

Websites
The Hong Kong International Optical Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/en
Result of the 25th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition:
OPT2025_eFairCat_DesignCompetition.indd
The 23rd Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium:
https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/en/the-23rd-hong-kong-international-optometric-symposium
The HKTDC’s Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en

Fair Details
Date: 5 – 7 November 2025 (Wednesday to Friday)
Time: (5 to 6 November) 9:30am – 6:30pm
(7 November) 9:30am – 5:00pm
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Admission: For trade visitors aged 18 or above only.
Onsite Registration Fee: HK$100 per person (free for e-Badge registration and pre-registered buyers)

Click2Match – Smart Business Matching Platform
Date: 29 October – 14 November

Media enquiries

Serena Cheung

Tel: (852) 2584 4272

Email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.org

The Hong Kong International Optical Fair opens today

– Creativity meets technology: with leading silver market, green and smart trends

– At the 33rd Hong Kong International Optical Fair, three product labels – “Smart Ageing Products”, “Green Solutions Suppliers”, and “Smart Eyewear” – are highlighted to facilitate sourcing. The Green Booth Design Competition will recognise exhibitors for their eco-friendly booth concept
– Tomorrow, 6 November, the 23rd Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium will feature experts sharing the latest developments in senior vision care
– The 25th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition award ceremony was held today, 5 November. Winning and shortlisted entries are exhibited onsite at BNG Rendezvous, Grand Hall

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA), the 33rd Hong Kong International Optical Fair opened today and will run from 5 to 7 November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This morning’s opening ceremony was officiated by Jude Chow, Executive Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries.

Jenny Koo, Acting Executive Director, HKTDC, stated in her opening remarks: “Hong Kong has long been one of the world’s leading exporters of optical products. Over the years, the Optical Fair has become a must-attend event for industry professionals from around the world. We are delighted to welcome over 660 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions this year. HKTDC has invited buyers from around the world to visit the fair, including from emerging markets such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam in ASEAN; Egypt and the UAE in the Middle East; and Brazil and Uruguay in South America; as well as from traditional markets like Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom, creating substantial business opportunities for exhibitors.”

Diverse pavilions showcase global creativity and technology
Themed “Bright Eyes – New Horizons”, the Optical Fair brings a wealth of innovative products which integrate scientific research, design excellence and sustainability concepts. The fair features ten group pavilions, including the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA), the Chinese Mainland (with delegations from Danyang, Zhejiang and Yingtan), Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and the new ASEAN pavilion, as well as “Visionaries of Style” which showcases creative and trendy designs. Highlighted examples include:

Japan Pavilion exhibitor Sasaki Celluloid (Booth: GH-C05) showcases eyewear crafted from rare celluloid material. Featuring a curved shape with coreless celluloid temples, the eyewear is designed for comfort. A timeless design with detailed cutting which combines expert Japanese technique and beauty in one ideal piece.
Taiwan Pavilion exhibitor Greatland Enterprise (Booth: 1C-F09) presents sunglasses equipped with NIRTECH® lens technology for cooling. It effectively blocks Near Infrared Radiation (NIR) to reduce eye heat and fatigue, keeping eyes cool and comfortable even in strong sunlight.
American brand Blake Kuwahara (Booth: GH-A18) at “Visionaries of Style” showcases intricate craftsmanship like laminated “frame-within-a-frame” construction. Every frame is meticulously handcrafted, highlighting nuanced details and superior craftsmanship.

The signature “Brand Name Gallery” showcases a curated selection of over 200 globally renowned brands spanning designer eyewear, trendy styles, and high-tech products. Notable brands include MINIMA from France, STEPPER from Germany, United Colors of Benetton from Italy, Masunaga since 1905 from Japan, nimome from Korea, Nano Vista from Spain, Collections Marcus Marienfeld from Switzerland, Ted Baker from the United Kingdom, and THRASHER from the USA.

Other exhibition zones are organised by product category, including the “Smart Glasses” zone which displays the ongoing trend of smart technology development, the “Designer Cafe and Innovation Hub” showcasing designer eyewear and innovative technology, as well as “Contact Lenses and Accessories”, “Diagnostic Instruments,” “Eyewear Accessories,” “Frames and Parts,” “Lenses,” “Optometric Instruments, Equipment & Machinery,” “Reading Glasses,” “Shop Fittings and Equipment,” and “Sporting and Professional Eyewear,” showcasing the innovation and diversity of the eyewear industry. For example:

Hong Kong Exhibitor Meisystem Asia Ltd. (Booth: 1B-B14) presents the EasyFit Trend ophthalmic lens edger, specifically designed for optical shops and small labs. This compact lens edger and beveler offers precision and reliability. It features an innovative lens testing system to boost productivity and boasts a modern, streamlined design.
Hong Kong Exhibitor Arts Optical Company Limited (Booth: GH-K01) introduces OPTI AI. Utilising VR to capture dynamic visual behavior patterns and powered by AI as its computational core. This breakthrough overcomes the limitations of traditional progressive lens design and fitting, creating bespoke lenses for individuals and redefining the progressive lens fitting paradigm.

Three thematic labels ensure market demands and needs are precisely matched

To facilitate buyer procurement, three special labels were introduced last year: “Smart Ageing Products”, “Green Solutions Suppliers” and “Smart Eyewear”, which were well-received by the industry. These three labels appear again this year to enhance procurement efficiency and highlight exhibitor innovations in the silver economy, sustainability, and smart technology. Selected highlighted products under these labels include:

Smart Ageing Products

Chinese Mainland brand MUEDO (Booth: 1D-G05) presents its U10 Dual-Mode Smart Reading Glasses, featuring auto-focusing lenses and hi-fi stereo sound quality. This design addresses a common issue where presbyopic individuals excessively increase volume levels while watching videos or during calls.
Japanese exhibitor Sasamata (Booth: GH-C11) presents its ultra-lightweight eye-bow eyewear frame, featuring a stage-controlled flip-up mechanism inspired by scissor-type hinges — perfect for users who constantly put on and take off their reading glasses.

Green Solutions Supplies

Founded by a Hong Kong eyewear designer, JLX STUDIO MADE (Booth: GH-C25) focuses on 3D-printed eyewear. The brand blends traditional craftsmanship with digital technology, using eco-friendly 3D-printing to reduce production waste and showcase a sustainable, customised vision for the future of eyewear.

Smart Eyewear

Chinese Mainland’s smart eyewear brand LAWAKEN (Booth: 1D-F06) presents its all-in-one AR glasses, LAWK ONE. Equipped with fitness tracking, AR navigation, music and call functionality, it supports first-person perspective 4K ultra HD recording, offering outdoor enthusiasts a hands-free experience and reducing reliance on smartphones.

This year the Green Booth Design Competition encourages exhibitors to incorporate sustainable concepts into their booth designs. Wenzhou Ouhai Glasses Co Ltd (Booth 1B-D18) won the Gold Award, while Micron Eyewear Manufactory Company Limited (Booth 1E-B18) and Jiangsu Xuzhi Optical Glasses Co., Ltd. (Booth 1C-D02) secured the Silver and Bronze Awards respectively. All three winners centered their designs around eco-friendly materials and waste reduction, demonstrating their brands’ commitment to sustainable development.

Expert symposium and design competition foster industry exchange and innovation

A series of events and eyewear parades are held at the fair. Tomorrow (6 November), The 23rd Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium, organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by The Hong Kong Optometric Association and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, will take place with the theme “Age Well, See Well: Redefining Eye Care for the Golden Age”. This event drives vision care for the ageing community toward new milestones. The opening ceremony will feature an address by Dr. Pang Fei-chau, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Health Bureau, and six experts and academics from Hong Kong, Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom will share insights on topics such as age-related visual challenges, diabetic retinopathy, and optometric care for patients with cognitive impairment, offering more personalised and effective health solutions for the silver market. The symposium is accredited by the Optometrists Board of Hong Kong, and participants attending the full-day conference may be eligible for up to six Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours.

The HKTDC always encourages the nurturing of new talent to energise the industry. The 25th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition, co-organised by HKTDC and the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, was held under the theme “Blending Tradition and Technology” and encourages designers to fuse craftsmanship aesthetics with innovative technology to create eyewear that is both functional and fashionable. The competition featured an Open Group and a Student Group. The award presentation was held this afternoon. The award-winning and shortlisted designs are displayed at BNG Rendezvous, Grand Hall during the fair. For competition results, please visit: OPT2025_eFairCat_DesignCompetition.indd

The fair will continue to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model which seamlessly integrates online and offline elements to extend business opportunities. Exhibitors and buyers can connect and arrange meetings through the Click2Match online smart business-matching platform until 14 November. During the physical event, buyers can also use the Scan2Match function on the HKTDC Marketplace App to scan exhibitors’ QR codes to bookmark favourite suppliers, access product details and interactive floor plans, and make product enquiries—enabling engagement with exhibitors before and after the fair to continue their sourcing journey.

Photo download: https://bit.ly/4qH08Vx

Websites:
The Hong Kong International Optical Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/en
Event details of the Hong Kong International Optical Fair:
https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/en/intelligence-hub
The 23rd Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium:
https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/en/the-23rd-hong-kong-international-optometric-symposium
The HKTDC’s Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en

Click2Match – Smart Business Matching Platform
Date: 29 October – 14 November

Media enquiries

Serena Cheung

Tel: (852) 2584 4272

Email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.org

About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the Chinese Mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

Professor Lin Xiang Xiong Hosts Landmark Art Exhibition and Peace Prize Ceremony in Paris

Renowned humanitarian-artist Professor Lin Xiang Xiong (“Professor Lin”) and founder of the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery in Penang, presented his latest exhibition, “The Vicissitudes of Life”, at the historic Hôtel de l’Industrie in Paris from 10 to 13 September 2025.

(L-R) Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former French Prime Minister and founder of Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, Professor Lin Xiang Xiong

The exhibition received strong support from key French institutions, with former French President François Hollande serving as Honorary Patron, and former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin personally attending the opening. Featuring 25 original works by Professor Lin, the exhibition explored three themes – anti-war, anti-poverty, and anti-pollution – and vividly embodied Professor Lin’s vision of “Art for Peace”, a concept that transcends aesthetics and seeks to inspire moral reflection and intercultural understanding.

Distinguished speakers exchange views on art, culture, and peace during the academic symposium held as part of Professor Lin Xiang Xiong’s exhibition “The Vicissitudes of Life” in Paris.

During the exhibition, a high-level academic symposium was held, bringing together leading international scholars, philosophers, and cultural leaders to reflect on “Intercultural Dialogue at the Crossroads” and “Rebuilding the Concept of Peace through Art.” Distinguished speakers included French writer and human rights activist Marek Halter, eminent philosopher and sinologist François Jullien, intellectual publisher François L’Yvonnet, Swiss curator and sociologist Barbara Polla, special adviser to the President of the Arab World Institute Claude Mollard, cultural diplomacy advisor Yves Marek, and retired French Air Force General Étienne Copel. Throughout the discussions, Professor Lin shared his unique insights on the times, on art, and on the essence of peace, sparking strong resonance and deep dialogue.

On 12 September, the inaugural “Lin Xiang Xiong Art for Peace Prize” ceremony was held with great success. The competition drew 1,883 entries from 100 countries around the world, far exceeding expectations. This overwhelming response underscored the wide recognition of Professor Lin’s “Art for Peace” advocacy, echoing the common aspirations of today’s world. Professor Lin announced that the award will be established as a biennial event, continuing as a major artistic initiative dedicated to peace.

The exhibition and symposium attracted a full house at the historic Hôtel de l’Industrie in Paris.

“This exhibition is more of an awakening of thought than a presentation of art,” said Professor Lin Xiang Xiong. “Every brushstroke is a testimony of time, a silent dialogue between past and present, pain and healing. Whether through the exhibition or the establishment of the Peace Prize, I hope art is not merely for admiration but can truly touch hearts, serve as a bridge between cultures, and awaken the soft conscience deep within humanity.”

Exhibition view of “The Vicissitudes of Life”

The exhibition also marks a milestone in Professor Lin’s artistic journey and heralds the opening of the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery in Penang, scheduled for mid-December 2025. Covering 8,000 square meters, the gallery will house Professor Lin’s major works and also providing a platform for emerging artists to pursue their dreams. It will stand as one of the largest private art galleries in the region, strengthening Malaysia’s role as a hub of cultural diplomacy and intercultural understanding in Southeast Asia.

Through “The Vicissitudes of Life,” Professor Lin once again demonstrates that art is a messenger of thought and conscience. With clarity, he advocates peace, and as an artist, he chooses his own path – through the soft power of culture, through words, and through his brush – to voice his deep concern for war, pollution, and poverty. With art as his language, he calls upon fellow artists to join his cause, uniting their strength to speak out for peace and the future of humanity.

Download high-resolution images from this LINK.

About Lin Xiang Xiong

Professor Lin Xiang Xiong is a renowned artist, entrepreneur, and advocate for global security through art. As President of the Global Chinese Arts & Culture Association, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Art, and a visiting Professor at Peking University, Lin’s work crosses disciplines and borders, connecting Eastern and Western cultures.

After leaving China for Singapore in 1956, Lin pursued art studies at the Academy of Arts (1965–1968). Success in business, particularly in the mining industry in Malaysia, funded his travels, art remained his personal refuge and lifelong passion.

His painting style is a dynamic combination of abstraction, traditional techniques, and contemporary social commentary, touching on themes such as climate change, war, forced migration, and the human condition. Despite being involved in the commercial field, Lin has never neglected his commitment to art as a force for good.

Professor Lin is an outspoken advocate of the power of the arts in promoting peace and unity. In 2016, he curated a UNESCO exhibition titled “Art for Peace – Cultural Dialogue between East and West”, which calls on artists to rise up as peacemakers, reduce inequality, and protect the planet. These events resulted in important cultural dialogues that have been documented and archived by UNESCO.

Professor Lin has published numerous works, including 8 collections of paintings and 27 volumes of essay and art criticism.

For media information, kindly contact:

Triven Marketing Group, for Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery
Jazzmin Wan
Tel: +6 017 289 4110
Email: j.wan@swanconsultancy.biz

CENTRESTAGE 10th anniversary set to dazzle in September

– Unprecedented scale and global reach at this year’s event, with Guo Pei’s Hong Kong solo couture debut showcasing Asia’s fashion flair

– Some 260 brands from 24 countries and regions set to participate, a new high for the event, with the UK debuting as Partner Country to present works by leading British designers
– Internationally acclaimed couturier Guo Pei will stage her first solo couture show in Hong Kong, unveiling 30 meticulously crafted pieces under the theme “Gilternity: An Everlasting Radiance”
– Aligning with market trends, the fair will introduce a new Accessories Zone and will once again feature the Circular Fashion Zone to promote the development of sustainable fashion
– The Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show will celebrate the creative journey of local brands; around 30 fashion shows will be staged during the fair – the highest number in the event’s history

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), CENTRESTAGE – the annual gala event for the Asian fashion industry – takes place from 3 to 6 September 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Unveiling a grand celebration of style for its 10th anniversary edition, this year’s CENTRESTAGE sees a record participation of some 260 brands from 24 countries and regions. The programme features more than 40 events, including around 30 fashion shows and parades – another record for the event. The four-day showcase is open to industry professionals and the public free of charge, welcoming visitors from Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas to experience the charm and creativity of Asia’s fashion capital.

Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “Over the past decade, CENTRESTAGE has become the perfect meeting point for fashion brands and designers from across the globe, and Asia in particular, to showcase their latest creations. As the event celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are truly privileged to welcome internationally acclaimed couturier Guo Pei to present a collection at CENTRESTAGE ELITES, marking her first solo couture show in Hong Kong. As the flagship fashion event for Asia, CENTRESTAGE not only celebrates virtuosity in design and craftsmanship, but also propels both local and international brands into the broader Asian market, supporting the vigorous development of the local fashion industry and reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global fashion hub and world-class East-meets-West centre for cultural exchange.”

This year’s CENTRESTAGE welcomes fashion brands from across the globe, including pavilions from the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Japan and Thailand. The UK is participating for the first time as the “Partner Country” of CENTRESTAGE, showcasing unique creations from various British designers. Globally acclaimed fashion maestro Jimmy Choo will not only attend CENTRESTAGE in person but also spotlight his visionary initiative – the Jimmy Choo Academy – showcasing works by emerging designers nurtured by the Academy. The Czechia pavilion will present personalised fashion labels that incorporate art-glass design; the Japan pavilion will spotlight emerging designers and brands, showcasing the creative force of Japan’s new generation; and the Thailand pavilion returns on an unprecedented scale, leading more than 40 brands to the show and expressing the rich diversity of Southeast Asian style. Brands from South Korea, Singapore and other countries will also exhibit their collections at the fair.

CENTRESTAGE ELITES sees Guo Pei’s first solo couture show in Hong Kong
The prestigious opening event, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, takes place on 1 September at M+ in the West Kowloon Cultural District, with internationally acclaimed couturier Guo Pei presenting her first solo couture show in Hong Kong. Guo Pei was the first Chinese designer invited to join the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) while also consecutively presenting 10 showcase collections in Paris. She previously participated in HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter in 2010, closing the Hong Kong Fashion Extravaganza with a spectacular finale.

For CENTRESTAGE ELITES, Guo will present 30 one-of-a-kind couture creations under the theme “Gilternity: An Everlasting Radiance”, drawing inspiration from the dazzling, fleeting moment of flowing molten gold. Fusing traditional craftsmanship with modern art, the collection epitomises her unparalleled artistry and technical mastery. In a gesture that honours both tradition and innovation, Guo has invited students from Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) to collaborate on the opening piece for the show.

This grand occasion will be livestreamed on the CENTRESTAGE website and Instagram, the HKTDC’s YouTube channel, Facebook and official pages, and across multiple platforms including ViuTV Facebook and Yahoo HK. On the second day of the event (4 September), Guo Pei will appear in person for a master sharing session, offering rare in-person insights into her creative journey and design philosophy.

Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show celebrates designers’ creative journey
On the evening of 3 September, the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show will take the stage under the theme “A Decade in Design: What is Seen’ What is Felt'”, exploring Hong Kong designers’ creative journeys. Four Hong Kong designer brands – ANGUS TSUI, ARTY:ACTIVE, IP AXIS INDUSTRIALSTUDIO and selfFab. – will showcase their innovative collections, merging visual impact and emotional narrative to spotlight the unique creativity of Hong Kong fashion design.

Six thematic zones showcase sustainability and diversity
CENTRESTAGE will be staged across six distinctive thematic zones, each offering its own unique appeal. The new Accessories Zone will present an array of fashion jewellery, handbags, footwear and other refined fashion accents, where style and function are seamlessly intertwined. The Athleisure Zone will champion activewear that unites aesthetics with practicality, reflecting the growing prominence of sports-inspired looks. The Craftsmanship Zone will showcase exquisite techniques and artisanal mastery that pay homage to heritage skills, while the Contemporary Zone will unveil forwardâ€‘thinking, avantâ€‘garde creations from cuttingâ€‘edge designers. The Urban Zone will spotlight youthâ€‘driven trends, including labels such as Petrolhead, helmed by artist Louis Cheung, which fuses motorcycle culture with a streetwear edge. Completing the lineup, the Circular Fashion Zone will advocate the possibilities presented by sustainable style, headlined by the 15th Redress Design Award Final at which the winning ecoâ€‘conscious collections will be showcased, promoting the industry’s focus on environmentally friendly design.

The four-day fair will present a rich variety of happenings, including student showcases from PolyU’s School of Fashion and Textiles and the Hong Kong Design Institute, as well as an interdisciplinary exhibition from the Fashion Farm Foundation that combines music, art, product design and intangible cultural heritage, featuring traditional crafts such as gold-thread embroidery in bridal gowns and the making of Canton silk. A record-breaking total of 28 fashion shows will be held throughout CENTRESTAGE, featuring brands such as 112 mountainyam, CAMMIE CHAN CHEONGSAM, DorisKath, and KOWLOON CITY BOY that showcase the vibrant energy of the fashion industry.

LOCAL POWER 2025, a cross-cultural project curated by Asian New Generation Creativity Design Association, will officially launch during CENTRESTAGE. This initiative will bring together designers from Hong Kong and Korea, presenting a thoughtfully curated exhibition and runway show that will help to foster cultural and creative exchanges between the two places. “THREAD OF CREATIVITY – Fashion Design Competition 2025″ and Knitwear Innovation and Design Society Limited (KIDS) featuring the Young Knitwear Designers’ Contest 2025 will also be held during the fair period.

The HKTDC will continue to invite buyers from around the world to source at CENTRESTAGE, including major multi-brand stores such as WDLT 117 Apparel Inc. from Canada, Zalora from Indonesia, Sugar Srl from Italy and Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores from Japan.

Spotlighting new talent at the YDC
The grand finale of CENTRESTAGE 2025 on Saturday, 6 September will be the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC), dedicated to discovering and nurturing new local talent. This year’s competition will continue to promote a spirit of innovation and experimentation, allowing participants to fully showcase their creativity while injecting fresh talent into the industry. Charles Jeffrey, the designer behind the London label Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY, has been invited as guest judge, joining a panel of other industry professionals to select winners from the 10 finalists vying for four major awards: Champion, Excellence Award, Best Art Direction and My Favourite Collection. Members of the public are invited to participate by casting votes online (https://bit.ly/YDC2025_IG_Vote_Now) for their favourite collection. Designer brands JESSE LEE and gnastiy.com, both former participants in the YDC, will showcase their new season special collections alongside guest performers at this year’s YDC finale.

CENTRESTAGE will be staged in parallel with the HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME, with visitors able to view the latest products from some 400 watch and fashion brands at the same venue. The fairs will also feature the CENTRESTAGE x Watch & Clock Lucky Draw. The brand-new CENTRESTAGE Instagram account (@centrestage_hktdc) is now officially live and will be updated with the latest event information and fashion trends. Everyone is welcome to follow and stay closely connected with all the latest happenings at CENTRESTAGE.

Photo download: https://bit.ly/47uYUFO

Websites
– CENTRESTAGE: https://www.hktdc.com/event/centrestage/en
– CENTRESTAGE ELITES: https://www.hktdc.com/event/centrestage/en/centrestage-elites
– CENTRESTAGE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centrestage_hktdc/?hl=en
– Fashion Hong Kong: https://www.fashionhongkong.com.hk/en
– Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC): www.fashionally.com/en

Media enquiries
Best Crew Public Relations & Marketing
Diana Tang Tel: (852) 9199 6723 Email: diana.tang@bestcrewpr.com
Reni Kwok Tel: (852) 6291 4283 Email: reni.kwok@bestcrewpr.com

HKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:
Sharon Ha Tel: (852) 2584 4575 Email: sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.org
Katy Wong Tel: (852) 2584 4524 Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org

HKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en

About the HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

CCIDA’s website: www.ccidahk.gov.hk

Introducing the Meshy 5 Preview: Smarter AI, Cleaner Models, Bigger Animation Potential

Meshy.ai, the world’s leading AI-powered 3D content generation platform, has launched the Meshy 5 Preview, offering early access to the next generation AI 3D model generator.

Meshy.ai, the world’s leading AI-powered 3D content generation platform, has launched the Meshy 5 Preview, offering early access to the next generation of AI 3D model generator. Built on the strong foundation of Meshy 4, this preview version introduces smarter generation tools, enhanced image alignment, sharper geometry, and over 500 new animations—empowering creators to build faster, cleaner, and more creatively than ever before.

Trusted by 3 Million Creators – The Platform of Choice for Game Developers
With over 30 million 3D assets generated and a community of more than 3 million creators, Meshy has become the go-to AI platform for game developers, VFX artists, and 3D content professionals worldwide. Recognized by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) as the only 3D tool featured in its list of “Most Popular AI Tools Among Game Developers,” Meshy is redefining how digital worlds are built—with speed, accuracy, and creative control.

What’s New in Meshy 5 Preview
Stronger Image Alignment: Mesh structures now more precisely match the shape and proportions of input images — with support for multi-view input to generate more complete 3D models.

Razor-sharp Geometry: From hard-surface mechs to organic characters, edges are sharper and forms more defined.

Advanced AI Tools: Now supports Kontext for multi-view generation and a smart AI Prompt Helper to make prompting faster and easier.

500+ New Animations: A dramatically expanded animation library for rigged characters, empowering developers and artists with more expressive motion capabilities.

“The multi-view support and sharper geometry have made our modelling workflow twice as fast with much less cleanup,” said Victoria C., a senior 3D environment artist at an indie game studio and early Meshy 5 Preview tester. “This version brings us much closer to using AI directly in our production pipeline.”

From Meshy 4 to Meshy 5 Preview: A Foundation Reinforced
About one year ago, Meshy introduced Meshy 4, which brought improvements in geometry quality, Text to 3D workflow, and retry functionality. Meshy 5 Preview builds on that foundation, offering enhanced mesh coherence, fewer visual defects, and a more structured modelling-to-texturing pipeline—allowing creators to move from concept to completion with unprecedented speed and clarity.

Whether generating stylized concepts or rigged production assets, Meshy empowers studios to accelerate creative pipelines, reduce manual workloads, and retain full artistic control. The platform integrates seamlessly with tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, Blender, and ZBrush, and supports advanced rigging and animation workflows out-of-the-box.

What Sets Meshy Apart
Powered by cutting-edge foundation models, Meshy combines advanced AI technology with industry-leading product capabilities to deliver unparalleled value. Its unique features and user-centric design have established Meshy as the world’s leading AI 3D model generator. Key differentiators include:

Hyper-Realistic Texture Generation – Capable of producing highly detailed, natural-looking textures that align with industry standards.
Advanced Rigging and Animation Support – Offers ready-to-use rigged models alongside an expanding motion library, significantly streamlining animation workflows.
A Thriving Community for Remix & Creative Collaboration – Hosts a vast repository of high-quality, customizable assets, enabling creators to easily remix and build upon existing work.
Unmatched Workflow Flexibility – Supports both white and textured model outputs, along with texture swapping via text or images.

Artists can effortlessly re-style assets — for example, transforming a realistic model into an ink-wash aesthetic — without starting from scratch.

Real Creators. Real Workflows. Real Impact.
From indie game developers and VFX artists to educators and avatar designers, creators around the world are embracing Meshy 5 Preview to reimagine the way they build, teach, and tell stories in 3D. Whether it’s speeding up asset production, unlocking new creative directions, or making 3D design accessible to more people—Meshy is becoming a core part of real-world workflows.

Whether you’re a creator with a cool workflow or an influencer interested in collaborating, share your project with us at marketing@meshy.ai.

Media Contact: Conan Zhang, Meshy.ai, marketing@meshy.ai, www.meshy.ai

Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks open today

– Three special offers invite residents and tourists to enjoy city’s cultural and leisure showcase

– A Hong Kong spotlight event in July and a feature of Hong Kong Summer Viva, the Hong Kong Book Fair opened today alongside the Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks. More than 770 exhibitors are participating in the three events
– With “Food Culture-Future Living” as the theme of the year, the Book Fair celebrates its 35th edition in 2025. To mark the occasion, three special offers have been introduced, including free entry for visitors born in 1990 to allow them to celebrate this milestone together
– The Book Fair continues to feature the Eight Seminar Series, including a session where the assistant and close friends of the late Hong Kong food critic and writer Chua Lam will share anecdotes about his life
– To echo the theme of the year, the World of Art & Culture presents “Book a Table ï½¥ Food for Thought”, an immersive exhibition where eight local and overseas artists collaborate with various consulates general in Hong Kong to explore global food culture through art
– The FIBA 3×3 World Tour Hong Kong 2025 is held concurrently with the Sports and Leisure Expo on 19-20 July, while visitors can enjoy more than 1,300 treats at the World of Snacks

The 35th HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, 8th HKTDC Sports and Leisure Expo and 5th HKTDC World of Snacks opened today, running concurrently at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) for seven days (16 to 22 July). Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the three events offer a one-stop experience encompassing literature, shopping, leisure and sports for residents and tourists alike. Cheuk Wing-hing, Acting Chief Secretary for Administration of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), gave a speech and proposed a toast at today’s opening reception, accompanied by Professor Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC.

The Hong Kong Book Fair marks Professor Ma’s first major HKTDC event since he assumed Chairmanship. “Since its inception in 1990, the Hong Kong Book Fair has, with the unwavering support of the industry and the public, evolved into one of Asia’s premier cultural events,” Prof Ma said. “It fosters a passion for reading and serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange between East and West,” he added. He further noted that this year’s Book Fair, held in conjunction with the Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks, has garnered an enthusiastic response. Featuring over 770 exhibitors, the events collectively offer a vibrant, family-friendly summer experience that seamlessly blends literature, sports, lifestyle and gastronomy.

Three special offers celebrate Book Fair’s 35th edition
To mark its 35th edition, the Book Fair has launched three special promotions. Visitors born in 1990, the year the Book Fair was first held, can enjoy free entry by presenting valid identification, while a limited-edition 35th-edition special package will be available, allowing five visitors to enter for the price of three tickets. In addition, visitors spending more than HK$500 at the Book Fair will have the opportunity to receive a limited-edition commemorative tote bag and a special gift.

As a Hong Kong spotlight event and a feature of the Hong Kong Summer Viva promotion in July, this year’s Book Fair has “Food Cultureï½¥Future Living” as its theme of the year. The event features more than 620 cultural activities, both inside and outside the venue, inviting prominent authors from the culinary literature realm to explore themes of cultural identity, lifestyle philosophy and food innovation through writing.

Seminar Series gathers writers from around the world to foster cultural exchange
The Book Fair continues to feature the Eight Seminar Series, covering a diverse range of topics, including Personal Development and Spiritual Growth, World of Knowledge, Theme of the Year, English and International Reading, Children and Youth Reading, Hong Kong Cultural and Historical, Lifestyle, and Renowned Writers, co-organised with Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan.

The Personal Development and Spiritual Growth series features a seminar celebrating the memory of renowned Hong Kong food critic and writer Chua Lam, with his assistant Yeung Ngo and close friend, well-known stylist Tina Liu, sharing stories about his life. Other distinguished speakers include former HKTDC Chairman Jack So, who will share his new book with the Chinese title As part of the World of Knowledge seminar series, Ronnie C. Chan, Honorary Chair of Hang Lung Properties and Chairman of the China Heritage Fund, will share the journey of restoring the Jianfu Palace Garden in the Forbidden City, drawing insights from the newly published book in Traditional Chinese, The Palace of Established Happiness: Restoring a Garden in the Forbidden City.

Highlights of the Theme of the Year seminars include renowned director and dietary therapy expert Yim Ho discussing anti-cancer nutrition (18 July); American commercial spaceship pilot Sian “Leo” Proctor on “Nourishing the Future – in Space and on Earth” (19 July); and a conversation between Andrew Chui, the fifth-generation heir of Tai Ping Koon Restaurant, and food reviewer and author Benny Li (20 July).

The English and International Reading series features Akutagawa Prize winner Rie Kudan from Japan. With 5% of her book Tokyo Sympathy Tower generated by ChatGPT, she will discuss writing in the age of artificial intelligence (17 July). Emerging Korean novelist Cheon Seon-ran will share her creative journey (18 July); and 16-year-old Vietnamese English-language author Nguyen Hanh Phuong (aka Rosy Black) will share her story of writing during her school years, with parents invited to bring their children to participate (20 July). For more details on the seminars and the speaker lineup, visit https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html.

Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the HKSAR, the World of Art & Culture echoes the theme of the year by holding the exhibition titled “Book a Table ï½¥ Food for Thought”, a collaboration between eight local and overseas artists and the consulates general of various countries in Hong Kong that uses food as a bridge to connect cultures and offers visitors a chance to explore the world through the dining table. The exhibition presents eight themed tables guiding visitors through stories of life and culture told through the dining table and covering topics such as food and healthy living, surplus and future, table etiquette, lifestyle and culture, process, experience, music and art. Additionally, interactive installations on site recommend curated books and exhibits to visitors.

New zones break cultural boundaries
Two new zones are introduced at the Book Fair this year. The Cultural and Creative Products Zone showcases cultural and creative products from the museums of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department along with interactive experiences related to Hong Kong’s intangible cultural heritage. The Cultural Affairs Bureau of Macao also joins the zone with its signature “Craft Market” while Hong Kong exhibitor Tsi Ku Chai showcases creative pieces inspired by the Palace Museum in Beijing. The Hong Kong Tech Showcase area, meanwhile, presents innovative technology products in various fields including edtech, healthtech, sportstech, foodtech and more.

Sports and Leisure Expo encourages wider participation as National Games arrive
This year sees the staging of the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, with several events taking place in Hong Kong. In response to the National Games and to promote wider sports participation, the Sports and Leisure Expo has set up an exhibition area where participants can take photos with games mascots Xiyangyang and Lerongrong. They can also learn more about the competitive events hosted in Hong Kong as well as the mass participation events, immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the games. The Hong Kong Sports Institute (Booth: 5C-B02) has set up a “Giant Cheering Net” where people can leave encouraging messages for all Hong Kong athletes, including those competing in the National Games. In addition, cyclist Leung Ka-yu, who has represented Hong Kong in the Asian Games and National Games, and freestyle rope skipper Ho Chu-ting, who was crowned men’s champion at the World Rope Skipping Championships, will share their journeys and experiences during the Star Athlete Sharing Session.

In collaboration with organiser M1 Group Limited, the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Hong Kong 2025 basketball tournament will be hosted indoors at the HKCEC for the first time. Matches will take place on Saturday and Sunday (19-20 July) in Hall 5E, featuring 16 of the world’s top teams, including four elite squads competing for the championship. Visitors can not only enjoy access to the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks with a single ticket, but they can also visit the 3×3 Village to experience the atmosphere of a world-class event. Additionally, they can engage in various sports games and explore the Sports Industry Showcase Area. This initiative aims to create a multifaceted experience that promotes cultural, sports and tourism development while providing a one-stop shopping, leisure and sports experience for locals and tourists alike.

The Hong Kong Playground Association (Booth: 5C-D02 & 5C-E02) is once again participating at the Sports and Leisure Expo, introducing a new sports experience area that offers participants the chance to engage in both traditional and emerging sports. Activities will include pickleball, freestyle rope skipping and running on 16-17 July; street fitness on 18-19 July; HADO AR dodgeball on 20-21 July; and drone soccer on 22 July. The latter is one of the mass participation events at the National Games. This year’s Sports and Leisure Expo also features a brand-new Travel Zone, showcasing the ever-popular Japan Pavilion, co-organised by the Consulate-General of Japan in Hong Kong and 17 participating Japanese prefectures and cities. The zone also includes pavilions from Taiwan and Thailand as well as a variety of uniquely Hong Kong attractions.

World of Snacks features international delicacies and more!
The World of Snacks is divided into six zones – Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar – and brings together over 1,300 creative and international snacks that offer everything from nostalgic flavours to festive party treats to satisfy every craving. A highlight this year is Heartwarming (Booth: 5B-A21), whose stone-ground black sesame products were endorsed with the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand 2025. Signature offerings include black sesame ice cream, black sesame paste and sesame balls. Meanwhile, Krisca, in collaboration with Kwan Hong Bakery and LY Bakery, has launched a new range of pistachio snacks (Booth: 5B-A11). World of Snacks is also hosting a series of snack-related activities for visitors, including a Junior Mixologist Workshop (non-alcoholic version), to cater to the diverse interests of visitors.

This year’s Hong Kong Book Fair again offers a morning admission tickets promotion. Visitors entering before noon can enjoy a discounted ticket price of HK$10. In addition, the special re-entry promotion allows eligible ticket holders to re-enter the venue during two designated time slots. All ticketing can be found below.

Media enquiries
Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Agnes Yiu Tel: (852) 3428 5690 Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Salina Cheng Tel: (852) 3428 2362 Email: salcheng@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Snowy Chan Tel: (852) 2584 4525 Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org
Serena Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4272 Email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.org

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, World of Snacks
HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Stanley So Tel: (852)2584 4049 Email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.org
Jane Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4137 Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org

HKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com

About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on @hktdc and LinkedIn

35th HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair opens on 16 July

– July’s Spotlight Event in Hong Kong runs together with Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks

– Book Fair runs alongside the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and HKTDC World of Snacks from 16 to 22 July at the HKCEC
– With a single ticket, visitors can immerse themselves in the worlds of literature, sports and leisure activities and global snacks. To celebrate the Book Fair’s 35th edition, three special offers will be launched to welcome both Hong Kong citizens and tourists, encouraging attendees to visit the fairs with their companions
– The theme of this year’s Book Fair is “Food Cultureï½¥Future Living”, featuring more than 620 cultural activities. The World of Art & Culture will feature an interactive exhibition, “Book a Table ï½¥ Food for Thought”
– The FIBA 3×3 World Tour Hong Kong 2025 international event will take place at the Sports and Leisure Expo, while the World of Snacks will offer more than 1,300 tasty treats

The 35th HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will be held from 16 to 22 July (Wednesday to Tuesday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The popular annual event will run concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the HKTDC World of Snacks, bringing together more than 770 exhibitors across the three fairs. With the theme of the year “Food Cultureï½¥Future Living”, the Book Fair will feature more than 620 cultural activities both onsite and offsite, including acclaimed writers’ seminars, book launches and multicultural activities, creating a literary feast and promoting a culture of reading.

Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “The Hong Kong Book Fair Cultural Events Advisory Panel selecting ‘Food Cultureï½¥Future Living’ as the theme of the year is truly meaningful. Both food and reading serve as carriers of culture. Food literature works not only document local culinary traditions but also narrate stories through recipes, making them more intriguing. As a renowned food paradise where east meets west, Hong Kong offers a unique platform for promoting international cultural exchange through food literature. We hope the theme of the year will encourage people to explore diverse aspects of food culture through reading, savouring the cultural nuances and lifestyle attitudes behind the texts and delving into new food cultures shaped by future technologies. We invite everyone to relish the joy and flavour of reading.”

Ms Chong added that Hong Kong Book Fair, as a Hong Kong spotlight event and a feature of the Hong Kong Summer Viva in July, will present a wide array of engaging experiences for locals and tourists alike. To celebrate the 35th edition of the Book Fair, three special offers will be rolled out to allow citizens and tourists to fully immerse themselves in the three major cultural and leisure events of reading, sports and leisure, and snacks. First, visitors born in 1990, when the Book Fair was first held, can enjoy free entry by presenting valid identification. Second, a limited edition of 500 35th-edition special packages will be available, allowing five visitors to enter for the price of three tickets. Third, visitors who spend over HK$500 at the Book Fair will have the opportunity to receive a limited-edition commemorative tote bag and a special gift.

World of Art & Culture presents a cross-cultural feast
The Book Fair continues to be supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to stage the World of Art & Culture and industry-focused activities such as the International Publishing Forum and the IP Roundtable.

To further promote Hong Kong as an east-meets-west centre for international cultural exchange, the World of Art & Culture echoes the theme of the year with an exhibition titled “Book a Table ï½¥ Food for Thought” that uses food as a bridge to connect cultures and offers visitors a chance to savour life and explore the world through the dining table. The exhibition is a collaboration between eight artists and the consulates general of various countries in Hong Kong. It features eight tables curated by eight artists, each exploring themes related to food and healthy living, surplus and future, table etiquette, lifestyle and culture, process, experience, music, art, and more. The consulates general will showcase related books and exhibits from around the world while an interactive artificial intelligence (AI) device onsite will recommend books to visitors. In addition, more than 30 events, including talks and workshops, will be held to provide a multifaceted exploration of food culture. Ray Lok, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Hong Kong agritech company Full Nature Farms, will share insights on the latest sustainable diets and future farming.

This year’s Book Fair features the Cultural and Creative Products Zone for the first time, offering interactive experiences related to Hong Kong’s intangible cultural heritage and showcasing a curated selection of cultural and creative products from Macao and the Palace Museum in Beijing. This year’s Mainland China Pavilion will spotlight Sichuan, the home of pandas, as the thematic province.

Under the theme “Sichuan and Hong Kong: Weaving Culture, Crafting Tomorrow”, the pavilion will showcase Sichuan’s lifestyle through iconic elements such as food, wine, tea, opera and embroidery, all rooted in the province’s rich heritage. There will be a display of award-winning Sichuan publications, foreign publishing achievements, and a variety of panda-themed books and cultural and creative products. There will also be a series of industry exchange activities such as the International Publishing Forum, the Hong Kong Publishing Biennial Awards and the Launch Ceremony of Publishing 3.0. The IP Roundtable will include a business matching session to help industry players explore business opportunities. (to be confirmed by branch office)

The 2025-26 Budget from the HKSAR Government mentioned plans to provide local technology companies with more physical displays for their products. In support of this initiative, the Book Fair will introduce the Hong Kong Tech Showcase area that will showcase innovative technology products in various areas including edtech, healthtech, sportstech, foodtech and more.

Eight Seminar Series explores the inspiration and wisdom of life
The Book Fair will continue to feature the Eight Seminar Series, inviting authors from around the world to share and exchange ideas with readers on topics including Theme of the Year, Renowned Writers, English and International Reading, World of Knowledge, Children and Youth Reading, Personal Development and Spiritual Growth and Hong Kong Cultural and Historical and Lifestyle. The Theme of the Year Seminar Series will invite notable writers related to food literature, including Andrew Chui, the fifth-generation heir of Tai Ping Koon Restaurant; Benny Li, a food review author; Yim Ho, a renowned director and dietary therapy expert; and Sian “Leo” Proctor, the first American woman to become a commercial spaceship pilot. Together, they will explore food culture, lifestyle and future technology, offering the audience fresh insights on life through the world of cuisine.

The Renowned Writers Seminar Series, co-organised by the HKTDC along with Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan, will feature a lineup of highly influential Chinese-language writers who will share and interact with readers onsite. The heavyweight speakers include Lung Ying-tai, making a return to the Hong Kong Book Fair; Xu Ze-chen, Mao Dun Literature Prize winner for his novel Northward; Xu Zi-dong, former Chair of the Department of Chinese at Lingnan University; business management expert Feng Tang; and Zhu Jia-ming, one of the “four gentlemen of China’s market reform” and an expert on AI.

The English and International Reading Seminar Series brings international authors to Hong Kong every year, highlighting the city’s position as an international metropolis. The star-studded authors in 2025 include Japanese author Rie Qudan, who won the Akutagawa Prize in 2024 for her AI-themed novel; Cheon Seon-ran, selected as the “Young Writer Who Will Become the Future of Korean Literature”; Kim Bo-young, one of Korea’s leading science fiction authors; Nguyen Hanh Phuong (aka Rosy Black), a 16-year-old Vietnamese writer of English fiction stories; and Osamu Okamura, a Czech architect focusing on human-centred urban design. Speakers at other seminars include Jack So, former Chairman of the HKTDC; Ronnie Chan, Honorary Chair of the Hang Lung Properties Limited; Yuen Kwok-yung, Chair Professor of the Department of Microbiology of the University of Hong Kong; and polar researcher Rebecca Lee. The Story Sharing by Celebrities session, meanwhile, will feature Vivian Kong, Olympic fencing gold medallist, Vicky Lau, the first female Michelin star chef in Hong Kong, and artists Carlos Chan and Grace Chan. For more details on the seminars and the lineup of speakers, please visit: https://shorturl.at/TRdAw )

Sports and Leisure Expo runs concurrently with the FIBA 3×3 World Tour
The 15th National Games will be held this year with several events set to take place in Hong Kong. The Sports and Leisure Expo will feature an exhibition area where visitors can take photos with the mascots, Xiyangyang and Lerongrong, and learn more about the competitive events and mass participation events that are being hosted in Hong Kong. To tie in with the current basketball craze, the HKTDC is collaborating with M1 Group Limited to bring the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Hong Kong 2025 international event to the HKCEC, where it will be held indoors for the first time on 19 and 20 July during the Sports and Leisure Expo. Ticket holders for the Book Fair can access the carnival-style 3×3 Village from 16 to 22 July, where they can enjoy various sports booth games and visit sports product showcases.

The Hong Kong Sports Institute (Booth 5C-B02) will once again set up a cheering zone and an exhibition area showcasing some of the precious items belonging to elite athletes, with visitors able to show their support for the Hong Kong stars as they prepare for the National Games. The popular Hong Kong Playground Association (Booth 5C-D02 &5C-E02) will also participate in the expo again. In addition to its signature mobile rope nets, the Association will introduce a new multi-sports experience zone, offering various sports experiences over the course of the seven-day exhibition period. Sports experiences include pickleball, rope skipping and running will feature on 16 and 17 July; street workouts will feature on 18 and 19 July; HADO AR dodgeball will be showcased on 20 and 21 July; and drone soccer features on 22 July. Making its debut at the event, Gymetaverse Company Limited (Booth 5C-C02) will promote the sport-finance concept through the LIVE4WELL sports rewards platform, encouraging the public to exercise more.

A new Travel Zone will debut this year, featuring the ever-popular Japan Pavilion along with the newly added Taiwan Pavilion and Thailand Pavilion. The Consulate General of Japan in Hong Kong will team up with 17 Japanese prefectures including Kagoshima, Okinawa, Shizuoka and Iwate, to participate in the Japan Pavilion, with a special focus on the Tohoku region’s popular local snacks beloved by tourists (Booth 5B-E23). Moreover, this zone highlights the Hong Kong attractions include GO PARK Sports (Booth 5B-E02) and the Sai Yuen Camping Adventure Park in Cheung Chau (Booth 5C-A05), offering visitors information on water and land sports, adventure activities and camping.

Discover Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand treats at the World of Snacks
This year’s World of Snacks will bring together more than 1,300 different treats featuring a variety of classic flavours, healthy options and handcrafted snacks from around the world. They include the stone-ground black sesame snacks that were selected for the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand 2025 (Heartwarming: Booth 5B-A21) as well as handcrafted sodas in special flavours such as ginger lemon honey and salted plum lemon honey (City Carbonation: Booth 5B-A10).

Cultural July brings the community together to promote the love of reading
In addition to the Book Fair, the HKTDC is once again organising Cultural July in collaboration with the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the HKSAR Government, publishers, and various educational, cultural and arts institutions. From 24 June to 31 July Cultural July will feature nearly 400 cultural activities including a food and culture tour, author sharing sessions, parent-child reading workshops, storytelling theatre, art exhibitions and handicraft workshops, all designed to promote a city-wide love of reading across each of Hong Kong’s 18 districts.

The Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks will continue to offer a single ticket for entry to all three events. This year, the adult ticket price remains at HK$30, while special discounts such as Morning Admission Tickets, Special re-entry, and Tourist Tickets will continue to be available. More details can be found below.

Disclaimer: Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Snowy Chan Tel: (852) 2584 4525 Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org
Serena Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4272 Email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.org

HKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com

About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

Desert Mirage or Musical Revolution? ESCAPE Records’ Secret Vault Opens, Revealing a Hidden Sonic Sanctuary

ESCAPE Records releases two transcendent works from its secretive Mojave Desert hub in Pioneertown CA: the Parallel Universe EP, a genre-defying musical odyssey from touring electronic artists and industry veterans, and Gong Song! (Live from Escape, Pioneertown CA), a 45-minute sound healing masterpiece by Alessandra Montana.

Naturally Occurring Emoji – BEEPLE

Everyday from BEEPLE. Cover of Parallel Universe EP. Courtesy of Escape Records LLC.

Crafted where social media fades to the obscure and creativity thrives, these two new records aim to forge deep audience connections – inspiring a sense of solidarity between the creative and their audience.

The Parallel Universe EP blends electronic, Americana, and Latin vibes, born during a songwriting retreat at ESCAPE’s legendary studio, some 40 miles from the gates of Coachella in the high desert of California, a mile above sea level under a myriad of stars. Listeners are invited to ponder what their life would be like in a parallel universe; evoking poignant emotions in today’s somewhat turbulent world.

Tracks are shared by studio founder and producer ROC Gardner, Latin Grammy-nominated Cimafunk (La Vida), Jamie N Commons (Hold Me While You Wait), DJ Tennis (Life and Death), and Grammy-nominated Jan Blomqvist (Remote Control), joined by producers Joseph Ray (Nero), Daniel Cantisani, Nikko Gibler (RicoshÄ“i), and Devlin Thorn alongside artists that include Kim Bullard (Elton John) and Craig McClune (David Gray) who lent their expertise to evolving the tracks.

Mixed by Mick Guzauski (Daft Punk, The Weeknd, Michael Jackson) and mastered by Bernie Grundman, tracks include Mezcalita (June 13), Happy Unhappy (June 20), La Sugar (June 27), and Never Know (July 4). BEEPLE’s surreal artwork Naturally Occurring Emoji and an AI-driven video by The Dor Brothers amplify the EP’s cosmic narrative.

“The universal sky we spent each night under sparked something raw,” says ROC. “It was awesome breaking out of our channels – we got to capture all these ideas, unbound by trends or any other concerns – it was great fun!”

Simultaneously, Alessandra Montana’s Gong Song! (Live from Escape) captures a live 45-minute sound journey, recorded meticulously with vintage gear and microphones at ESCAPE. Guided by mixing engineer Rob Columbus and mastered by Grundman, Montana’s gongs and sacred instruments weave a meditative portal for healing.

“Escape’s magic let me share my practice globally. I can’t wait for people to hear this and experience the journey we went on,” says Montana.

ESCAPE, a 140-acre creative haven hosting Rüfüs Du Sol, Arctic Monkeys, Usher, RAYE – and many others – fosters unfiltered artistry. The studio hopes to deliver magic – and its music – unfettered and unfiltered.

Visit www.esca.pe for more.

Assets: Press release, artwork, lyrics, .wav files available upon request.
Interviews: info@esca.pe

Jan Blomqvist appears courtesy of Armada Music B.V.

Tracks:
Mezcalita (1st Single): https://audiosalad.ffm.to/commons-roc-mezcalita
Parallel Universe EP: https://audiosalad.ffm.to/parallel-universe
Gong Song! (Live from Escape): https://audiosalad.ffm.to/gong-song

Contact Information
Steven Bradley
9/9 – Digital/Social Media
escape@9slash9.com

Escape Records
Label Contact
info@esca.pe

SOURCE: Escape Records LLC