– Unveiling Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland and Asian business opportunities
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)will hold its 13th Think Business, Think Hong Kong (TBTHK) mega promotion campaign at Palazzo Mezzanotte in Milan on 27 November. This also marks the event’s return to Italy since 2014.
Amid the rapidly evolving global landscape and driven by new growth markets – such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) – as well as opportunities from the Northern Metropolis initiative in Hong Kong, the event offers Italian businesses an opportunity to explore new markets, build partnerships and foster collaboration across Asia.
After successful Paris and Jakarta editions, TBTHK Milan will bring together some 80 representatives from Hong Kong, including government officials, top business leaders, innovators, investors and start-up entrepreneurs, for a day of dialogue, networking and partnership-building with Italian companies keen to expand into Asia.
At the event, Prof Frederick Ma, HKTDC Chairman, representatives from the Hong Kong SAR Government and Italian government will deliver remarks. High-profile speakers from various industries will share their insights at the Plenary Session, including Hans Michael Jebsen, Chairman of The Hong Kong-Europe Business Council and Jebsen Group; Bernard Chan, Chairman of West Kowloon Cultural District Authority; Bonnie Chan, CEO of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; Claudio de Bedin, Partner of Justin Chow & de Bedin Solicitors LLP; and Alex Zhavoronkov, Founder and CEO of Insilico Medicine.
The programme also includes four thematic sessions, each focusing on a strategic area that reflects shared priorities between Hong Kong and Italy and offers in-depth insights into practical collaboration opportunities:
Finance and Trade: Highlighting global economic trends, Hong Kong’s role as a trade hub, its advanced digital trade initiatives, success stories using new technologies and plans to build trade corridors linking Italy, Hong Kong, and the Chinese MainlandInnovation and Technology: Exploring AI developments, greentech, industrial digitalisation and smart city solutions, featuring case studies and testimonials that showcase promising sectors for Italian businesses seeking to expand in AsiaSupply Chain Service: Highlighting the strategic role of corporate treasury centres in strengthening supply chain functions to support Italian business growth and partnerships within Asia’s dynamic market environmentCreative and Design: Focusing on promoting collaboration between Hong Kong and Italian design, lifestyle and manufacturing excellence across Asian markets as well as fashion, art and luxury – areas in which Italian creativity and Asia’s cultural vibrancy intertwine
Strong Italy-Hong Kong ties Italy is an important trading and investment partner of Hong Kong. In 2024, trade between Italy and Hong Kong amounted to US$8.3 billion. This positions Italy as Hong Kong’s fourth-largest trading partner, export market and third-largest import market in the EU.
Italy was also the third-largest EU investor in Hong Kong at the end of 2023, while Hong Kong was the third most popular destination for Italian investment in Asia. Hong Kong investors also made substantial investments in Italy, with the city being the third-largest Asian investor in the country. As of 2024, there were 200 Italian companies operating in Hong Kong.
The most dynamic sectors include fashion and luxury goods, electronics, food and beverage as well as high-value professional services industries, for which Italian excellence is globally recognised.
The Asian metropolis offers a unique global ecosystem, combining competitive taxation, a robust legal framework based on the common law, strong IP protection and privileged access to the Chinese Mainland and emerging Asia-Pacific markets.
This combination makes Hong Kong an ideal platform for Italian companies eager to expand internationally, diversify and strengthen their presence in one of the world’s most vibrant regions.
A media briefing about TBTHK was held in Milan on 16 October, during which Chris Lo, HKTDC Regional Director for Europe, said: “Hong Kong continues to stand out as a dynamic, international and forward-looking ecosystem. With legal certainty, tax efficiency and direct access to the Chinese Mainland market, the city serves as an ideal bridge for Italian companies seeking to operate in Asia. At the same time, the city represents a major opportunity for Asian companies looking to Europe – and particularly to Italy – as a prime destination for investment, innovation and industrial partnerships.”
Gianluca Mirante, HKTDC Director for Italy, added: “Think Business, Think Hong Kong is much more than an event. The campaign accelerates strategic connections between two complementary economies. Italian companies will find in Hong Kong a reliable partner for innovation, growth and international expansion. The initiative serves as a meeting point for institutions, businesses and investors, fostering collaboration and best practices in key areas, such as innovation, finance and sustainable development. It is a concrete opportunity to strengthen ties and open new avenues of cooperation between Italy and Hong Kong.”
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.
– Over 660 global exhibitors to showcase innovation, elderly care, design and sustainability
– The 33rd Hong Kong International Optical Fair will showcase over 660 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions. Highlights will include the debut of the ASEAN Pavilion and Zhejiang Pavilion. For the first time, exhibitors from Indonesia, Russia and Vietnam will further expand the Fair’s international network – The Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium will gather experts from Hong Kong, Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom to share the latest developments in senior vision care – The 25th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition — themed “Blending Tradition and Technology” — will display winning and shortlisted entries onsite
Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, the 33rd Hong Kong International Optical Fair will be held from 5 to 7 November 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will bring together more than 660 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions, and present a one-stop showcase of innovative and high-tech eyewear designs and products.
Jenny Koo, Acting Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “This year’s Hong Kong International Optical Fair, themed ‘Bright Eyes – New Horizons’, showcases a wide array of products encompassing smart technology, healthcare, senior-oriented designs and sustainable elements. It demonstrates breakthroughs in function and aesthetics, reflecting global eyewear market trends and reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international trading hub.”
Industry development drives new opportunities Hong Kong’s total exports of spectacles, lenses and frames reached HK$13.7 billion in the first eight months of 2025. The European Union, the United States, and Chinese Mainland are Hong Kong’s top three export markets respectively, with exports to the mainland surging 23% year-on-year. Despite intense global competition, Hong Kong’s eyewear industry continues to maintain its strengths in design, technology and quality.
This year’s fair brings together exhibitors from around the world, including first-time participants from Indonesia, Russia and Vietnam, alongside representatives from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States across Europe and the Americas; and Japan, Korea, Singapore and Thailand within Asia. The fair will also feature exhibitors from Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao. Ten group pavilions — including the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA), Chinese Mainland (with delegations from Danyang, Zhejiang and Yingtan), Taiwan, Japan and Korea, as well as “Visionaries of Style” showcasing creative and trendy designs — will showcase international brands and leading local enterprises to demonstrate optical fashions and manufacturing innovation.
The ASEAN Pavilion will make its debut this year, with an Indonesian exhibitor presenting Halal-certified eyewear products, demonstrating the industry’s awareness of cultural sensitivity and market diversity. The signature “Brand Name Gallery” will feature over 200 international brands which encompass designer eyewear, trendsetting collections and high-technology eyewear and provide buyers with a one-stop sourcing platform.
Events to showcase industry expertise and creativity A series of seminars, eyewear parades and other events will highlight the creative thinking and technological achievements of the optical industry. The 23rdHong Kong International Optometric Symposium— themed “Age Well, See Well: Redefining Eye Care for the Golden Age” organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by The Hong Kong Optometric Association and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University will be held on 6 November. Sessions will focus on vision care for the ageing community and feature six experts and academics from Hong Kong, Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom. They will share insights on topics such as age-related visual challenges, diabetic retinopathy, and optometric care for patients with cognitive impairment, and provide attendees with international perspectives and the latest clinical research trends. 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 25thHong Kong Eyewear Design Competition, co-organised by HKTDC and the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, will present the theme “Blending Tradition and Technology”. It is aimed at fostering local design and manufacturing innovation and will include an Open Group as well as a Student Group. The award presentation will be held on 5 November, and shortlisted entries will be exhibited onsite at Brand Name Gallery (BNG) Rendezvous, Grand Hall during the fair, giving visitors an opportunity to appreciate the creativity and flair of Hong Kong eyewear design.
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.
Featured Products As global markets evolve and technology advances, eyewear design moves towards premium quality, multifunctionality and personalisation. This year’s exhibitors will showcase a wealth of innovative products that integrate scientific research, design excellence and sustainability concepts, reflecting four key market trends: smart technology, eye health, functionality & design, and sustainability. These innovative offerings illustrate how the optical industry harnesses creativity to meet the needs of a new era. Selected featured products include:
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.
– Findings of a supply chain study commissioned by the HKTDC point out that even amid tense US-China relations, many US companies remain deeply engaged in the Chinese market, particularly in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area due to its unique and highly concentrated supplier network that is difficult to replace
– Mainland enterprises are actively diversifying their supply chains and using Hong Kong as a supply chain management centre, with the city playing a key role in regional supply chain transformation
– Hong Kong is a “superconnector” that serves as a crucial gateway for mainland enterprises to expand overseas and for global companies to access the Chinese Mainland market and regional supply chains
Hong Kong’s status as the preeminent supply chain “superconnector” has been reaffirmed by a major new US-Hong Kong research initiative. This was one of the key findings of “Strategically Leveraging Supply Chains to Access the Asian Market”, a major new research initiative commissioned by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)and conducted by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute of the United States.
At the heart of the study is a timely analysis of the ways in which the shift in US trade policy has triggered the accelerated reconfiguration of global supply chains, creating a raft of new challenges and opportunities along the way.
While full details of the analysis will be published in December, preliminary findings introduced in the run-up to the 15th Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference (ALMAC) indicate heightened geopolitical tensions, evolving trade policies, environmental pressures and technological advancements as becoming the collective catalyst for a supply chain revolution that is impacting every aspect of the global economy. In the wake of this mass recalibration, companies are reassessing their operations and looking to manage hitherto unencountered risks, ensuring that resilience is now prioritised alongside cost management and consistent competitiveness. This will inevitably impact the primacy of Asia’s role within this transformed landscape.
The US research team was headed by Sean Randolph, Senior Director of the Bay Area Council Economic Institute, an acknowledged authority on economic and policy issues. Detailing the transformation underway, Mr Randolph said that the adoption of strategies such as reshoring, nearshoring and developing redundant supply routes by many global businesses is accelerating the regionalisation of supply chains. This shift, he said, has been partly driven by the regional trade agreements in place, but also by the need for greater supply chain security and a desire for proximity.
Expanding on this, Mr Randolph said: “Companies are diversifying their manufacturing bases, while relocating certain activities from China to other countries in Southeast Asia, India and Mexico – adopting the so-called ‘China+1’ strategy in order to ensure resilience and reduce risk exposure.
“At the same time, despite the ongoing bilateral friction, it is notable that many US companies remain deeply engaged with China. This is largely on account of the country’s unique concentration of suppliers – especially in the case of such regions as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) – which cannot be easily replaced or replicated elsewhere. Indeed, a number of recent surveys and announcements – including major Chinese Mainland investment commitments by businesses of the stature of Nvidia and Apple – have clearly demonstrated that, for many US businesses, China remains a key locale, with their engagement at least partly due to the indispensability of the broader regional supply chains.”
Hong Kong can benefit as mainland enterprises look to diversify supply chains Noting that the new tariffs and President Trump’s changed trade priorities have given some countries comparative advantages when exporting to the US, HKTDC Director of Research Irina Fan said: “In a development likely to bolster China’s stature as a production base, following early November’s US-China trade agreement, Chinese imports to the United States will be subject to a 20% tariff rate (10% reciprocal tariff + 10% fentanyl related) for the period 10 November 2025 to 10 November 2026. This comparatively low tariff level puts China-based suppliers on a par with many of their Southeast Asia counterparts, while providing them with a significant competitive advantage over countries with a higher tariff rate.”
Maintaining that this does not suggest that Chinese Mainland businesses are complacent about their status, Ms Fan added: “Currently, many mainland enterprises are proactively taking steps to diversify and strengthen their supply chains, with a significant number of them leveraging Hong Kong as their supply chain management centre. Overall, Hong Kong is clearly set to play an increasingly important role in the ongoing supply chain transformation process, a change that is being driven by the region’s deeper economic integration and the new generation of supply chain networks.”
The report cited the electric vehicle (EV) sector as one example where Hong Kong is already playing a pivotal role in the regional supply chain transformation process. As mainland-based automotive manufacturers, as well as their global counterparts, prioritise the expansion of EV and battery production in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong has more than proved its worth as a crucial investment and financial hub, acting as an effective conduit for significant capital to be channelled into countries such as Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. More generally, recent investment data also clearly indicated that Chinese Mainland companies are increasingly utilising Hong Kong as the support platform for many of their regional projects.
This outcome is likely to be bolstered by Hong Kong’s wide-ranging financial and professional services sectors, as well as the city’s agility in adapting to technological transformation and the evolving regulatory landscape – attributes that collectively position it as an indispensable nexus for international businesses.
Summing up the report’s assessment of Hong Kong, Ms Fan said: “Essentially, this new research highlights Hong Kong’s vital roles as both a superconnector and a super-value-adder, while confirming the city’s status as the key enabler for any mainland enterprise looking to expand overseas, and simultaneously serving as a gateway for any global company looking to access the revitalised regional supply chains and the China market. This ubiquity is reflected within Hong Kong itself, with the city now home to an ever-higher number of overseas businesses, including 1,390 US companies, as of June 2024.”
Flagship logistics event set to address regional supply chain developments The rise of regional supply chains and the implications for global trade will be among the many key issues addressed at the upcoming ALMAC, which will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on 17 and 18 November. Organised by the Hong Kong SAR Government and the HKTDC, the event will bring together some 80 distinguished speakers and is expected to attract 2,300 participants from more than 40 countries and regions. In line with the policies outlined in the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee and the 2025 Policy Address, the event will focus on many of the recent moves to further enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international shipping centre and global logistics hub.
As the annual flagship event for the logistics, maritime and aviation sectors, ALMAC 2025 is running under the theme “Collaboration and Growth in the New Trade Landscape”, reflecting the event’s commitment to exploring trends and opportunities in the fields of logistics, shipping and air freight. Ultimately, the aims of the event are to foster the high-quality development of logistics and supply chain management, deepen international engagement, and facilitate practical cooperation throughout the logistics industry.
Introduction to Sean Randolph, Senior Director, Bay Area Council Economic Institute
Sean Randolph served as President and Chief Executive of the Bay Area Council Economic Institute from 1998 to 2015. The Economic Institute is a business-supported public policy research and strategy organisation that focuses on the economy of the San Francisco/Silicon Valley Bay Area and California. He previously served as Director of International Trade for the State of California, and, before that, as International Director General of the Pacific Basin Economic Council (PBEC), a 1,000-member Asia-Pacific business organisation. His professional career includes service in the US Government on Congressional staffs, the White House staff, and in senior positions at the Departments of State and Energy, including as Deputy/Ambassador-at-Large for Pacific Basin Affairs and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Energy for International Affairs. Based in San Francisco, he writes for regional, US and global media and frequently speaks to Bay Area and international audiences on technology, innovation and global economic issues.
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.
– 22 exhibitors highlight Hong Kong’s I&T strengths
– The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) teamed up to stage two tech pavilions at GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai, helping Hong Kong exhibitors break into the Middle East market. – Multiple pitching sessions were held along with a networking dinner to help Hong Kong’s I&T enterprises establish local business connections. – Hong Kong exhibitors achieved fruitful results, with one exhibitor set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the authorities from Oman after the event.
GITEX Global 2025 concluded successfully last Friday. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)joined hands with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) to stage two pavilions featuring 22 exhibitors showcasing the latest applications and solutions in AI and robotics, IoT and greentech. The HKTDC also helped organise pitching sessions and a networking dinner to help Hong Kong’s I&T enterprises establish local business connections.
During the exhibition, exhibitor Robocore Technology Limited was in discussion with a multinational outdoor advertising company that was actively considering purchasing Robocore’s advertising robots for global use. Roy Lam, CEO of Robocore Technology, said: “GITEX marks our fourth overseas exhibition this year with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, following CES in Las Vegas, USA, the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, and Viva Technology (VivaTech) in Paris, France. We established connections with more than 250 Middle Eastern companies over the five-day exhibition in GITEX. Many buyers expressed interest in purchasing our robots or becoming local distributors. We are also delighted to have met with the authorities from Oman again at GITEX and confirmed that we are signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Hong Kong this Thursday, aimed at co-establishing an AI and Robotics Center in Oman, advancing localised talent training and certification, and implementing cross-departmental pilot projects.” He is very pleased to see the strong demand for Hong Kong’s I&T products and services in the Middle East market and will continue to actively expand into the region.
To help Hong Kong exhibitors establish a stronger network with the Middle East and international markets, the HKTDC hosted a networking dinner on 14 October together with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (ETO) in Dubai. Around 100 industry representatives attended from Hong Kong, the local region and beyond. Hong Kong exhibitors were able to connect with local counterparts to explore business opportunities.
Winnie Leung, founder of exhibitor WYNI Technology, shared after the dinner: “The HKTDC has bridged the gap between Hong Kong’s I&T enterprises and the Middle East market by helping us to establish contacts locally to understand the diverse opportunities and challenges in the Middle East market, and by connecting us with local banks and companies to advance business expansion efforts in the region.” Moving forward, WYNI Technology will follow up further to solidify potential partnerships and continue expanding in the Middle East market.
Another exhibitor, Canpanion Group Limited, engaged with a local education company during the networking dinner. Both parties are exploring ways to integrate Canpanion’s technology into inclusive education. They also established contact with relevant local authorities and will further explore collaboration opportunities through the help of the ETO in Dubai. Additionally, another local educational institution expressed interest in partnering with them and the government to establish an AI school, thereby fostering an ecosystem for smart education.
Start-up and investor event Expand North Star took place from 12 to 15 October at Dubai Harbour, where HKSTP set up a Pavilion showcasing innovative solutions from its 10 park companies. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University also participated in the exhibition.
The HKTDC continues to lead Hong Kong businesses in participating in major international tech exhibitions, helping local start-ups expand overseas and reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global innovation and technology hub. Following GITEX Global 2025, the HKTDC will once again organise the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion next year at CES in Las Vegas, USA in January, the MWC 2026 in Barcelona, Spain in March and VivaTech in Paris, France, providing an effective platform for I&T companies to showcase their cutting-edge technologies.
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.
Meeting government and business leaders to enhance Hong Kong-ASEAN ties
To promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and enhance trade and economic cooperation between Hong Kong and Thailand and the wider ASEAN region, Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), visited Bangkok and met with senior government and business leaders.
Prof Ma spoke on a panel at the Singapore Regional Business Forum organised by the Singapore Business Federation. He said, “Businesses are diversifying amid the changing landscape. Asia remains a major engine for economic growth, underpinned by the rise of emerging markets, like ASEAN and the Middle East. China, with its industrial base and vast population, is a stabilising force in an ever-changing world. And Hong Kong, given its superconnector and super value-adder roles, is a dynamic platform linking Mainland China with the world.”
Aside from the event, Prof Ma met with Chantawit Tantasith, Deputy Minister of Commerce of Thailand, and Dhanin Chearavanont, Senior Chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group, to exchange views on deepening Hong Kong-Thailand trade and economic cooperation.
Prof Ma noted: “Thailand is an important trade and investment partner for Hong Kong. I am delighted that I had the opportunity to exchange insights with the Ministry of Commerce and leading enterprises in Thailand as well as political and business leaders from Singapore to further strengthen the economic ties between Hong Kong and Thailand and the wider ASEAN region.”
As a statutory body, the HKTDC promotes, assists and develops Hong Kong’s external trade, while supporting Hong Kong businesses to tap into the opportunities in ASEAN. The HKTDC’s flagship events, such as the Asian Financial Forum and the Belt and Road Summit, serve as ideal platforms to highlight the latest developments and opportunities in Hong Kong as well as the city’s advantages in professional services, while facilitating cross-regional collaboration.
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.
– Robust visitor turnout despite downpour; special offers and theme days to spark shopping excitement
Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the five-day (14-18 August) Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo and Home Delights Expo open to the public from today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Food Expo PRO, held concurrently from 14 to 16 August, is open to trade buyers for the first two days and to the public and trade buyers on the final day. For the first time, the Hong Kong International Tea Fair will be open to both industry professionals and the public throughout its three-day duration (14-16 August). The International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), organised by the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association (MCMIA) together with the HKTDC and ten scientific research institutions, also take place today and tomorrow (14-15 August).
Due to Black Rainstorm Warning Signal, the opening of the fairs was delayed and the first session of the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine was livestreamed.
The Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, Home Delights Expo will extend the opening hours to 11pm on 15-17 August. The Food Expo PRO and Hong Kong International Tea Fair will remain open until 6pm today and tomorrow (14 to 15 August) and until 5pm on Saturday (16 August).
Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, stated: “The 35th Food Expo celebrates an important milestone this year. The five-in-one mega event plays host to some 1,890 exhibitors from 36 countries and regions, serving as a one-stop destination and a vibrant marketplace for both trade professionals and consumers, where gourmet foods, fine teas, home essentials and beauty products can be found. Meanwhile, Food Expo PRO is dedicated to boosting Hong Kong’s status as a premier business hub for the food industry, not just in Mainland China, but across Asia and the globe. It empowers F&B professionals to explore new opportunities, forge valuable connections, and drive innovation.”
Several exhibitors expressed that their special offers will remain unchanged. Among them, Phelix Pun from Ng Fung Hong Limited shared that staff arrived as usual this morning to prepare for the exhibition. They hope that, once the exhibition opens, it will continue to boost their business, with the planned special offers and interactive games proceeding as scheduled. They believe that citizens will continue to turn out enthusiastically to visit and shop.
Five themed days create a quality living space 1. Shall We Tea’ (14 August) Today’s focus is on the variety of Chinese and Western tea beverages. This year, the Hong Kong International Tea Fair opens to the public for all three days for the first time, featuring pavilions from countries and regions such as Fujian, Hubei, Zhejiang, Kenya, and Sri Lanka to promote tea culture. Visitors can sample premium traditional teas like Bai Hao Yin Zhen (Silver Needle tea) (Booth: 5F-F01), one of the finest Chinese white teas, alongside wellness capsule tea (Booth: 5F-F05), and innovative new-style tea beverages from various regions (Booth: 5G-A21). The “Friends of Tea” Zone also offers tea-pairing snacks, tea-infused perfumes and more, offering a blend of traditional and modern tea culture experiences. Visitors can participate in various talks, including “The Legacy and Contemporary Dialogues of Chinese Tea Culture” and “The Beauty of Tea, Where Small Things Reveal Greatness”, as well as activities led by certified water sommeliers and tea masters exploring the diversity of water, decoding the secrets of tea flavours, and delving into the joy of tea appreciation.
At the Food Expo, visitors can enjoy premium matcha and hojicha from Kyoto’s century-old Marukyu Koyamaen tea garden, blended with locally made fresh nut butter to create tea-flavoured gelato (Booth: 3B-E10). The Nin Jiom Tea Pairing Lucky Bag (Booth: 1C-A10) includes five functional teas with various health benefits. Additionally, Earl Grey tea infused with bergamot in drip-filter bags (Booth: 1D-A12) offers a refreshing citrus aroma.
2. Flavours of Intangible Cultural Heritage (15 August) Despite its small size, Hong Kong boasts over 50 items on its intangible cultural heritage list related to food, showcasing its unique culinary culture. Exhibitors will present tea bags made with 100% Ceylon black tea, ready to brew for an effortless Hong Kong-style milk tea or Yuan Yang (Booth: 5F-F21). Additionally, there’s handmade shrimp paste from Hong Kong’s last remaining licensed salted fish and shrimp paste factory, capturing the authentic flavours of Hong Kong’s fishing village heritage (Booth: 1A-E02).
The themed day features a series of activities centered on intangible cultural heritage. At the Home Delights Expo, master artisan Choi Wing-kei will share the story of preserving the traditional craft of floral plaque making, alongside demonstrations of Taiji and Wing Chun martial arts techniques, as well as introductions to the cultural significance of bamboo steamers and bamboo craftsmanship. The Food Expo will showcase demonstrations of making traditional Hakka Sau Fan. The Hong Kong International Tea Fair will host a seminar on “Chiu Chow Kung Fu Tea,” exploring the distinctive tea culture of the Chaoshan region.
3. Asian Delights (16 August) The day celebrates Asian cuisine and culture, featuring cooking demonstrations of Vietnamese dishes and molecular Thai cuisine, complemented by performances of the traditional Japanese shamisen, K-Pop dance, and a Thai yoga massage experience at the Beauty & Wellness Theatre, immerses visitors in the vibrant essence of Asia.
At the Food Expo, the China National Agricultural Pavilion, organised by the Agricultural Trade Promotion Centre, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Mainland China, will present a thousand agricultural and food products from 13 provinces, such as Korla fragrant pears, Xinjiang safflower seed oil, rainbow trout salmon, Guangdong lychee black tea, Lianzhou mustard greens, Hainan Wuzhishan large-leaf tea, Northeast black soil organic rice, and Yantai apples from the Qilu region.
Visitors can explore a range of premium products at the Food Expo PRO. The 100% natural, hand-picked wild pine nut oil from Mongolia (Booth: 5C-G20) is a healthy choice for daily diets. A whisky from Soni Village in Nara Prefecture, renowned for its pristine spring water (Booth: 5B-B06), its smooth taste is perfect for a variety of uses, whether drinking neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a variety of cocktails. The spicy and crispy milk chocolate, made with Sichuan pepper oil, Espelette pepper, and almond paste filling (Booth: 3B-E04), would offer an unforgettable tasting experience.
4. Body, Mind, and Soul (17 August) This year, the Beauty & Wellness Expo introduces the new “Scentsation”Zone, featuring over 20 brands showcasing a range of perfumes and aromatherapy products to nurture both mind and body. Making its debut at the expo, Lush (Booth: 3E-D08) presents its popular Deep Sleep Magnesium Massage Bar, designed to enhance sleep quality. In response to the growing opportunities in the silver economy, exhibitors are offering various products and services tailored for seniors. Mannings, participating in the Beauty & Wellness Expo for the first time, will feature a Smart Health Station, offering free health tests to help seniors select the best fit wellness products.
The Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, and Home Delights Expo will host a series of seminars and activities, including hand massage workshops, discussions on the emerging trend of Hong Kong residents seeking cross-border medical care, towel exercise sessions, explorations of ergonomics and the latest treatments for various diseases, and diets to boost immunity. The performance stage will feature various sports demonstrations, such as taekwondo, street dance, and ballroom dancing.
5. Taste HK (18 August) In recent years, organic farming has gained popularity, with growing demand for local produce. A cooking demonstration, co-organised by DRAGONS’ DEN, the Vegetable Marketing Organization, and the Fish Marketing Organization at the Food Expo, will use local ingredients to create healthy and delicious home-cooked dishes. Additionally, the Home Delights Expo will feature notable products, including a glass-lined insulated handheld cup that won the 2024 Red Dot Product Design Award (Booth: 3F-D20), a water faucet awarded the 2023 Red Dot Design Award (Booth: 3F-B18), and a plug-and-play portable air conditioner that requires no exhaust duct (Booth: 3F-E25).
At the Food Expo, visitors can savour a sparkling soda infused with lemon honey, salted plum, and ginger (Booth: 3B-A07), recreating classic Hong Kong flavors. A Kee Wah snack set paired with a cute panda backpack (Booth: 1E-C02) combines iconic treats. At the Food Expo PRO, traditional mooncakes developed by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s food team (Booth: 5C-C17) utilise exclusive AkkMore™ fungal fat-replacement technology, blending health with deliciousness.
Exploring Halal Products, Coffee, and Food Science Opportunities The 3rd Food Expo PRO and the 35th Food Expo have introduced a Halal food and beverage label since last year to assist exhibitors in expanding into the halal product market. This year, the two expos feature over 120 food suppliers showcasing halal products from around the world, a 20% increase compared to last year. The expo also strengthens collaborations with countries with thriving halal food markets. Group pavilions at the Food Expo PRO include ASEAN countries such as the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, enriching the variety of halal exhibits.
The Food Expo PRO introduces a new “Coffee Zone” this year, showcasing coffee products, accessories, and machines from various origins. Yunnan Province, China’s leading coffee bean producer, is represented by several Pu’er City companies exhibiting Kunlu Mountain and Jinpaoshan roasted beans and other products. Another highlight, the “Food Science and Technology Zone”, presents alternative and future foods of interest to industry professionals. Today’s Food Tech Symposium explores the development of additive-free foods and clean labeling in Hong Kong. Exhibitors are also targeting the silver economy, showcasing innovative products such as soft-textured mooncakes and cognitive health supplements developed by local exhibitors.
21 Prominent Speakers Discuss the Latest Developments in Chinese Medicine(14-15 August) The Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, together with the HKTDC and ten scientific research institutions, provides industry professionals with the latest insights into Chinese medicine. Themed “The Latest Research Progress in the Prevention and Treatment of Tumors, Inflammation, and Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases with Traditional Medicine”, the conference secures 21 prominent speakers, including experts from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and overseas, sharing innovative achievements and trends in the globalisation of Chinese medicine. Conducted in a hybrid format, the conference offers broader opportunities for interaction with speakers. Hong Kong-registered Chinese medicine practitioners can also earn Continuing Medical Education credits by attending the conference.
Food Expo Celebrates 35th Edition with Exclusive Offers To celebrate the 35th Food Expo, free admission tickets are available each day before noon, with 350 each at Halls 3FG and 5FG entrances and redeemable with the designated advertisement. Over 100 promotions are priced at HK$35 or discounted by 65% to tie in with the 35th Food Expo. The “Food Expo 35th Edition – Treasure Hunt” game engages visitors in Hall 3, where they can hunt for ‘treasure’, scan QR codes, answer questions correctly, and redeem gifts. Together with daily lucky draws, prizes are worth over HK$1 million, including kitchenware, furniture, beauty products, gourmet foods, health items; a lucky draw entry is granted for a single transaction of HK$300 or more. The “Smart Bidding” session allows visitors to bid on favourite items starting at 10% of their original price. Visit the “August Happy Buy” promotional website for flash sales and exclusive discounts.
Snoopy is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The organiser invites visitors to participate in the “Snoopy Hide & Seek” activity at the Home Delights Expo, where they can snap photos with Snoopy and friends for a chance to win special prizes, joining in the festive celebration.
Physical ticket sales are unavailable at the venue. E-tickets can be purchased in advance through AlipayHK, Alipay, 01 Space, 7-Eleven, Circle K, Octopus app, or The Club app, or at venue entrances using AlipayHK, Alipay, or Octopus. Discounted “Morning Admission” and “Evening Admission” are offered on select dates.
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.
Following the lifting of the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal at 11:10am, the Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, Home Delights Expo, Food Expo PRO and Hong Kong International Tea Fair will reopen at 1:10pm.
The Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, Home Delights Expo will be extended and close at 11pm from 15 August to 17 August, allowing public visitors to enjoy shopping in these fairs—with a single ticket. The Food Expo PRO and Hong Kong International Tea Fair will remain open until 6pm today and tomorrow (14 to 15 August) and until 5pm on Saturday (16 August), enabling trade buyers and exhibitors to continue their business discussions.
Admission tickets valid for today may be used for entry on any of the remaining fair days.
Sessions 2 and 3 of the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine afternoon programme will be resumed in a hybrid format.
Media enquiries Ogilvy Public Relations: Rex Cheuk +852 5618 9908 rex.cheuk@ogilvy.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.
As the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal was issued at 7:50am, the opening of Food Expo, and the concurrent Food Expo PRO, Hong Kong International Tea Fair, Beauty & Wellness Expo and Home Delights Expo, will be postponed. The opening ceremony originally scheduled for 10:30am, is cancelled. The International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine will be accessible via livestream.
The organiser will make appropriate arrangements to ensure the safety of those already at the venue and will closely monitor the weather conditions. The organiser will open the Food Expo, Food Expo PRO, Hong Kong International Tea Fair, Beauty & Wellness Expo and Home Delights Expo two hours after the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is cancelled.
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
– Helping service providers seize opportunities in ASEAN and strengthen Hong Kong-Vietnam ties
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council(HKTDC) organised a delegation to Hanoi, Vietnam from 5 to 7 August to promote Hong Kong’s professional services and assist Hong Kong professional service providers in exploring business opportunities.
As Hong Kong’s sixth-largest trading partner and the second largest among ASEAN members, Vietnam has steadily strengthened trade and economic relations with Hong Kong. The delegation aims at further deepening bilateral business ties and introducing Hong Kong’s professional services to local businesses there.
The delegation, co-led by Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, and Rimsky Yuen, Chairman of the HKTDC Professional Services Committee Advisory Committee, comprised 19 Hong Kong professionals from various sectors, including accounting, legal, consulting and corporate services.
During the visit, delegate Tim Koo, Director, Normsun Advisory Services Limited, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Trade and Economics of Vietnam, reflecting a commitment by both sides to strengthen cooperation.
Meetings with Vietnam’s government bodies, industry associations and large local enterprises – such as the Foreign Investment Agency under Ministry of Finance, Kinh Bac Group, National Innovation Center, The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Vietnam, The Vietnam Association of Certified Public Accountants, Vietnam Bank’s Association, Vietnam International Arbitration Centre and VMO Holdings – provided a plethora of opportunities for Hong Kong delegates to explore cooperation opportunities with their Vietnamese counterparts.
One of the mission highlights, which was the lunch seminar co-hosted by the HKTDC and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, successfully promoted Hong Kong’s role as a regional centre for professional services and risk management. Attracting over 120 Vietnamese business representatives and professionals, it encouraged local enterprises to collaborate with Hong Kong service providers when expanding their business or managing risks.
At the lunch seminar, Dr Lau said: “This mission is a part of the HKTDC’s new Hong Kong Professionals Plus campaign. We hope to tell the stories of Hong Kong through business delegations and visits as well as promote the strengths of Hong Kong’s professional services sector, while at the same time assist them to better understand the latest developments in the ASEAN markets and to seize business opportunities.”
Mr Yuen stated: “As an international financial centre and a regional hub for professional services, Hong Kong possesses top-tier talents offering world-class legal, financial and consulting services. With extensive experience in facilitating cross-border investments and fund-raising over the years, Hong Kong can meet the development needs of Vietnamese enterprises and assist investors from other countries in seizing opportunities in Vietnam.”
The HKTDC regularly organises business missions across industries. It will continue to conduct outreach activities to promote the advantages of Hong Kong’s professional services, while helping service providers seize more overseas collaboration opportunities.
Media enquiries HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department: Johnny Tsui Tel: (852) 2584 4395 Email: johnny.cy.tsui@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 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.
– Mainland consumers favour online shopping for Hong Kong products, view brands as high-quality, reputable and authentic
– 78% of respondents had bought Hong Kong products online in the past year particularly young consumers and those in areas with higher consumption levels. – Online shoppers hold positive views of Hong Kong products and brands, giving an average score of 8.7 to Hong Kong products. – Genuine products, reputable merchants and wide product selection are the most important considerations for respondents, over low prices and other factors when purchasing online. – Mainland online shoppers mostly buy electronic, luxury and fashion goods from Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) released the research report: Hong Kong Businesses Navigating Mainland China E-commerce Retail Market – Consumer Survey Results. The results show that Mainland online shoppers generally like Hong Kong products. Overall, 78% of respondents had bought Hong Kong products online in the past year. Mainland consumers have a high level of trust in Hong Kong brands and hold products in high regard. This provides a solid foundation for Hong Kong businesses to expand into the Mainland e-commerce market. Hong Kong businesses can leverage the advantage of Hong Kong brands and choose suitable platforms for e-commerce sales. The upcoming release of the E-commerce Case Studies report will focus on ways to develop e-commerce retail sales and serve as a reference for Hong Kong businesses looking to expand their market in the Mainland.
HKTDC Director of Research, Irina Fan, said: “Mainland consumers shop online frequently, averaging 9.4 purchases per month. This is particularly true for those in tier-one and Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities. When shopping online, Mainland consumers’ primary consideration is whether the products are genuine, not low prices. This suggests that Hong Kong businesses can leverage the superior quality of Hong Kong products and the strong reputation of Hong Kong brands in Mainland China to expand into the Mainland e-commerce market. They can flexibly use comprehensive shelf and ‘interest-based’ e-commerce platforms to sell online along with methods such as live-streaming and short videos for promotion, and stand out in the highly competitive market through targeted marketing strategies.”
HKTDC Research commissioned an agency to conduct a survey of 2,200 middle-income or above consumers from different Mainland cities during the second and third quarters of 2024. The aim was to learn about their online consumption habits, as well as their preferences regarding Hong Kong products. The findings will help Hong Kong companies better formulate appropriate strategies to tap the Mainland e-commerce retail market.
Online shopping characteristics of Mainland consumers – Mainland consumers shop online frequently, averaging 9.4 purchases per month. This is particularly true for those in tier-one cities. Shopping frequency among women (10 times monthly) is higher than for men (8.8 times). By age group, consumers aged 30-49 demonstrate the highest online shopping frequency, averaging 11.2 purchases per month. – Comprehensive e-commerce platformsare the predominant online shopping channel, with 95% of respondents using comprehensive/digital shelf e-commerce platforms to shop online. This figure far exceeds the use of live-streaming/short video platforms (38%) and group buying platforms (32%). In terms of online shopping for cross-border or imported products, consumers prefer to use Tmall International or JD International, with 73% and 63% respectively choosing these platforms. Other notable platforms include Douyin E-commerce Global (30%) and Amazon China (21%). – Authenticity, wide selection and reputation are top considerations for online shopping. An authenticity guarantee policy (15%), reputable merchants (11%) and wide product selection (9%) are the top three considerations for respondents when purchasing online. – “Promotion” is the most important factor for consumers when buying newly-launched products online. Nearly 90% of respondents cited “promotion” as their primary consideration, followed by product quality and design (70%). – Mainland consumers demand quick delivery. Mainland online shoppers, on average, get their products 3.2 days after placing an order, with fast fulfilment a key competitive advantage in winning over local consumers.
Wing Chu, Principal Economist (Greater China) of HKTDC, said: “Although online purchasing power currently clusters around tier-one and tier-two cities, the tier-three cities are becoming a focus for Hong Kong companies. Furthermore, irrespective of whether they are shopping locally or from further afield, consumers generally demand quick delivery, and their expectations in this regard continue to rise. The Hong Kong products that Mainland consumers most like to buy online are consumer electronics and electrical products (72%), followed by luxury goods (46%) and fashion products (41%).” It’s worth noting that Mainland consumers who purchase Hong Kong products online tend to spend a higher average order amount on children’s products, drugs and health supplements, and pet products compared to the overall average.”
Hong Kong products favored by Mainland Consumers – Mainland online shoppers generally like Hong Kong products, particularly those in areas with higher consumption levels. Overall, 78% of respondents had bought Hong Kong products online in the past year. The proportion was 85% in tier-one cities, 81% in the Greater Bay Area, 78% in tier-two cities and 74% in tier-three cities. – Hong Kong products are more favoured by young consumers. In terms of age distribution, 83% of respondents in the 18-29 age group said they had bought Hong Kong products online in the past year. This was closely followed by consumers aged 30-49 (82%), while the proportion among consumers above 50 years old was lower (65%). – Female consumers in high-consumption areas tend to prefer Hong Kong products. While overall gender differences are minimal – 77% of male and 79% of female respondents reported purchasing Hong Kong products – the trend varies by region. In tier-one and tier-two cities, and in the GBA, significantly more female consumers have bought Hong Kong products online. – Mainland online shoppers hold positive views of Hong Kong products, brands and online stores. The respondents gave an average score of 8.7 to Hong Kong products when compared with other products. Respondents from tier-three cities gave the highest score of 9.2. In terms of age, consumers aged 18-29 gave Hong Kong products the highest rating of 8.9. – Mainland online shoppers mostly buy electronic, luxury and fashion goods from Hong Kong. The Hong Kong products that Mainland consumers most like to buy online are consumer electronics and electrical products (72%), followed by luxury goods (46%) and fashion products (41%). The GBA has the highest proportion of consumers buying consumer electronics and electrical products (79%), followed closely by tier-one cities (78%). The proportion of consumers buying luxury goods in tier-one cities (53%), the GBA (52%) and tier-two cities (51%) are comparable. – Orders in food and drug sectors, and of products for children and pets, exceed the overall average. Among Mainland shoppers who have bought Hong Kong products online, the average order value for children’s goods is 24% higher than the average. Orders of drug and health products (16%), pet products (29%), and fresh produce and food (18%) are also significantly higher in value than the average. – The Hong Kong “brand” enjoys a good reputation in the Mainland market and is widely seen as a mark of trust and quality. When asked to describe Hong Kong merchandise, brands and products, respondents viewed products from Hong Kong as “in compliance with stringent product safety standards” (28%), “guaranteed raw material/material quality” (28%), “guaranteed genuine products” (27%), “confidence in quality” (27%) and “fashionable look” (27%). – Mainland consumers seek out official brand channels. Mainland consumers obtain information from official brand channels when choosing Hong Kong electronics and electrical products (31%), luxury items (34%), sports products (34%) and fashion products (26%). They rely heavily on product reviews when purchasing Hong Kong drug and health products (34%) and beauty products (32%) online.
Eric Chu, Economist (Greater China) of HKTDC, said: “Based on case studies of e-commerce retailers and service providers in Mainland China, Hong Kong businesses might consider using multi-channel operation strategies. This includes leveraging both traditional digital shelves platforms and emerging ‘interest-based‘ platforms to reach different consumer groups and increase traffic. However, some cases show that while businesses can collaborate with influencers/KOLs for “influencer marketing,” it’s important to base these efforts on market analysis and data to select influencer endorsements that suit their products. This approach improves promotional accuracy and achieves cost-effective, optimal marketing results.”
HKTDC will later release an additional report titled “Hong Kong Businesses Navigating Mainland China E-commerce Retail Market – Case Studies,” which includes detailed case studies of e-commerce activities and service providers in Mainland China.
The second Hong Kong Shopping Festival aims to help local businesses navigate Mainland China e-commerce The second Hong Kong Shopping Festival, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will take place on Mainland e-commerce platforms from 1 to 31 August. Fully aligned with measures outlined in the 2024 Policy Address, the festival aims to support Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as they expand into the Mainland e-commerce market. As the flagship event of HKTDC’s E-commerce Express, the second Hong Kong Shopping Festival has attracted nearly 260 brands across seven major categories, including health supplements, food and beverages, home and living, personal care and cosmetics, apparel and accessories, smart gadgets, and products for the silver market. The festival features over 500 unique products and offers month-long discount promotions.
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.
