Tag: hktdc

18th Asian Financial Forum wraps up successfully

  • Attracting 3,600+ policymakers and business leaders to leverage Hong Kong’s strengths as an international financial centre

– The 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) ended successfully today, drawing 3,600+ policymakers and business leaders from more than 50 countries and regions to discuss the latest developments in financial markets and investment opportunities
– The event focused on how Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre can be leveraged to navigate and adapt during a period of change, paving the way for more high-profile conferences and exhibitions in the year ahead
– More than 700 one-on-one AFF Deal-making meetings were held on-site, connecting funds and investment projects from around the world
– On-site polling indicated that generative AI-led innovation (41.6%) and non-AI innovation, including digital infrastructure & healthcare (23%), were seen by most participants as the most critical growth engines in Asia Pacific.

The 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF), co-organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), successfully wrapped up today under the theme “Powering the Next Growth Engine”. This year’s forum attracted over 3,600 global financial and business elites from more than 50 countries and regions. The event leveraged Hong Kong’s role as an international financial centre to strengthen the international communication platform, foster multilateral cooperation and promote mutually beneficial outcomes. Three high-level Mainland China officials attended the Opening Session of the AFF yesterday, including Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council; Dr Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China; and Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of China.

As the year’s first large-scale international financial and business event in the region, the atmosphere at the AFF was vibrant and charged with a positive energy. The forum showcased emerging perspectives across the diverse sessions, all of which were well-attended and well-received by speakers and audiences alike. Leaders from around the world actively engaged in discussion throughout the two-day event, with more than 130 policymakers, international financial and multilateral organisation representatives, financial institutions, and global corporate leaders joining as speakers.

The speaker at the Keynote Luncheon on the first day of this year’s AFF was Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), who delivered an in-depth analysis of the shifting global economic landscape. Prof Lin pointed out: “In terms of purchasing power, China has the largest domestic market in the world. I think China can reach a 4.5 % growth rate on the average annually between 2019 and 2049. Thus China will continue to contribute around 30% of growth to the world every year. It’s good not only for China, but also will be the most important asset of Hong Kong in the coming years.”

Keynote Luncheon today focused on AI: Future Industries and Implications, with Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI, sharing his insights into the development, application and governance of generative AI. Prof Russell said: “We could build AI systems that are guaranteed to further human interests but we aren’t. Some may worry that the machines that we are building will become conscious and lose control, but competence should actually be the topic that we worry about.  As history shows, we cause species to become extinct due to our competence, not our consciousness. We are training them to have human-like objectives, and that is a fundamental mistake. I am hoping that if we design the AI system well enough, they themselves will refuse to contribute to the enfeeblement of the human race.” Another AI expert, Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, also addressed the transformative power of AI and its impact on technological advancements in the global business ecosystem during a dialogue session.

In alignment with the HKSAR Government’s initiatives to promote sustainable development in Hong Kong, sustainability emerged as a key focus at the forum. A session yesterday featured experts including Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), who delved into the adoption of financial disclosure standards to enhance confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets. Today saw more discussions related to sustainable development, including a Breakfast Panel dedicating to transition finance and two more sessions – on sustainable investment and Post-COP29 Implementation: Enhance Climate Ambition and Enable Financing Action – at which Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of China, gave remarks.

This afternoon saw the debut of the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter, jointly organised by the AFF and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR Government, and HE Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, delivered keynote remarks. Financial officials and representatives from Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates joined industry leaders from Hong Kong to share updates on economic developments in the Gulf region, highlight future investment opportunities, and examine ways to strengthen financial cooperation and investment between the member states of the GCC and Hong Kong.

In addition, pioneers from a range of industries actively participated in sessions such as CIO Insights, Dialogues for Tomorrow and Global Spectrum, focusing on hot topics ranging from fintech and capital markets to female entrepreneurship and philanthropy. One of the heavyweight speakers at this year’s AFF was Joe Tsai, Chairman of the Alibaba Group, who shared his views at a fireside chat moderated by Ronnie Chan, Honorary Chair, Hang Lung Properties Limited on how large companies spur economic development in a session titled Global Spectrum – The Role of Large Companies in Supporting Start-ups and Social Enterprises.

Views on mainland and overseas industries and environmental economies tracked on-site
Real-time polling was conducted during the forum to gauge participants’ views on various topics, such as the global economic outlook and China opportunities. It indicated that generative AI-led innovation (41.6%) and non-AI innovation, including digital infrastructure & healthcare (23%), were seen by participants as the most critical growth engines in the Asia Pacific region. Meanwhile, generative AI (31.4%) and advanced manufacturing (20%) were seen as the most promising growth sectors  in Mainland China.

More than 700 one-on-one matching meetings facilitated on-site over two days
This year’s AFF Deal-making, co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (HKVCA), brought together more than 270 investors and over 560 investment projects with more than 700 one-on-one meetings held, covering a wide spectrum of sectors such as fintech, healthtech, deep tech, consumer goods, infrastructure and real estate, environment, energy and environmental technology. The meetings helped to connect funds and investment projects from across the globe.

As always, the AFF featured several exhibition zones, set up with the aim of creating business connections and promoting networking, including the Fintech Showcase, Fintech HK Startup Salon, the InnoVenture Salon, and the Global Investment Zone. These zones featured more than 140 exhibitors including international financial institutions, technology companies, start-ups, investment promotion agencies and sponsors such as AFF Knowledge Partner EY, along with HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Standard Chartered Bank, UBS, Prudential, China International Capital Corporation (CICC) and Huatai International and more.

Three other events ran concurrently with the AFF across the two days. The Hong Kong International Fundraising Roundtable 2025 yesterday convened C-suite leaders from overseas and mainland enterprises with Hong Kong’s financial and professional service providers to address pressing financing and fundraising needs. The Malaysia–Hong Kong Islamic Finance Roundtable, co-organised with Malaysia International Islamic Financial Centre (MIFC) Leadership Council, facilitated the development of cross-border financial activities between Hong Kong and Islamic economies represented by Malaysia. Additionally, the Family Office Symposium, co-organised with the Private Wealth Management Association (PWMA), spotlighted Hong Kong’s advantages as a premier family office destination and explored current investment trends.

The Asian Financial Forum was a signature event of 2025 International Financial Week (IFW), which runs from 13 to 17 January and brings together more than 20 partner events to create synergies in the industry. These events cover many topics of global interest to the financial and business community, including private equity, family offices, net zero investing and generative AI, among others. This week of events helps underscore the importance of Hong Kong as an international financial hub.

Websites
– Asian Financial Forum: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en
– Programme: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/programme
– Speaker list: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/speaker

AFF 2025 video footage: AFF 2025 footage

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

https://www.uphoto.cn/album_ia1082272835.html
image
image
image
image

Media enquiries
Yuan Tung Financial Relations Limited:

Agnes YiuTel: (852) 3428 5690Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Louise SongTel: (852) 3428 5691Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:

Clayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org
Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@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 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. 

18th Asian Financial Forum officially kicks off today

Over 130 global policymakers and business leaders discuss market trends and explore investment strategies

  • Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the 18th Asian Financial Forum 2025 (AFF), the region’s first major international financial and business event of the year, opened today, expecting about 3,600 global financial and business elites from over 50 countries and regions
  • A distinguished line-up of speakers attended the opening session on the first day, including Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dr Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China; and Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People’s Republic of China
  • Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), spoke at today’s Keynote Luncheon, dissecting how to achieve stable growth and drive rapid economic development amid a complex international environment
  • The AFF brings together over 130 officials, multilateral organisation and business leaders from Mainland China, ASEAN, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the United States to examine global dynamics and financial policies, foster global collaboration, and explore new drivers for future growth
  • The luncheon on the second day will feature a keynote speech by Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI, who will share insights on how AI could become a new engine for global economic growth

The 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) 2025, co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the two-day forum has attracted over 130 global business leaders, policymakers, financial and wealth management experts, entrepreneurs, tech giants and economists as speakers. About 3,600 financial and business elites from over 50 countries and regions are expected to gather and explore how to ignite new engines for growth in 2025 and navigate the challenges ahead.

The forum kicked off with opening remarks by John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, followed by addresses from Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dr Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China; and Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People’s Republic of China.

Welcome remarks were delivered by Dr Peter KN Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, who said: “Future growth will be different to that of the past, as traditional growth models face resource constraints and environmental pressures. Innovations, such as AI, renewable energy, fintech developments and healthcare discoveries, have the potential to power economic growth and enrich human development for decades to come. It is timely that the theme of this year’s Asian Financial Forum, ‘Powering the Next Growth Engine’, addresses these very questions from the perspective of finance and its impacts on broader business communities. The forum will discuss how the finance industry and corporates can support the next generation of innovative businesses and industries to help them unleash their potential and drive global growth in the years ahead.”

The two-day forum presents over 40 sessions ranging from Plenary Sessions, Policy Dialogue, Keynote Luncheons and Breakfast Panel, Fireside Chats, and thematic workshops. Topics included global economic outlook, China opportunities, new markets opportunities, investment outlook, artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, sustainability, philanthropy, and more, giving participants a deeper understanding of future opportunities and insights into global economic development.

Discussion session gathers international experts to address global challenges
This year’s forum is dedicated to driving new thinking, strengthening international cooperation and trust, and addressing the global economic landscape in a challenging environment. Plenary Session I – Innovation: The Solution to Unlock the Next Growth Engines, hosted by Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, brought together finance officials and multilateral organisation leaders to examine financial policies in 2025. Guest speakers included Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers – Head of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyz Republic; Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister of Finance and Revenue of Pakistan; Gilles Roth, Minister of Finance of Luxembourg; and Yoshiki Takeuchi, Deputy Secretary-General, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Plenary Session II – Collaboration: The Road to Growth and Prosperity focused on international cooperation and was also moderated by Christopher Hui. The panel speakers included Roberta Casali, Vice-President of Finance and Risk Management of the Asian Development Bank; Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). They explored ways to rebuild trust and deepen partnerships amid global challenges to achieve shared growth and common prosperity.

A Policy Dialogue session, Accelerating Growth through Innovation, was moderated by Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. Speakers included Bayardavaa Bayarsaikhan, Director General of the Monetary Policy Department of the Bank of Mongolia; Philip Lane, Chief Economist and Member of Executive Board of the European Central Bank; Rogelio V. Quevedo, Commissioner of Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines; and Dr Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland. They exchanged valuable insights on issues such as global monetary policy trends and the impact of geopolitical factors on markets, helping businesses and organisations better navigate uncertainty and explore new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

High calibre economists discuss economic growth strategies at today’s Keynote Luncheon 
Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, gave his welcome remarks at today’s Keynote Luncheon. Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), delivered a keynote speech that addressed strategies for achieving stable economic growth. A dialogue session was moderated by Prof Richard Wong, Philip Wong Kennedy Wong Professor in Political Economy and Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong.

Exploring the global outlook, opportunities in China and avenues for cooperation
One of the highlights of the afternoon session, the Global Economic Outlook discussion, was kicked off by Liu Haoling, Vice Chairman and President and Chief Investment Officer of the China Investment Corporation with a special address. The panel discussion was moderated by Victor Chu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Eastern Investment Group, with speakers including Ernesto Torres Cantú, Member of Executive Management Team and Head of International of Citi; Bonnie Y Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; J Christopher Donahue, President and Chief Executive Officer of Federated Hermes, Inc; Antoine Gosset-Grainville, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AXA; and Dr Fred Hu, Founder and Chairman of Primavera Capital Group. The participants shared valuable insights on the drivers for global economic growth.

Another well-received panel discussion at last year’s AFF, the China Opportunities session, was joined by some heavyweight speakers, including Charles Li, Founder and Chairman, Micro Connect; Li Yimei, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management; Ken Wong, Executive Vice President of Lenovo and President of Lenovo Solutions and Services Group; and Wilson Zhang, Managing Director, Global Executive Head of Equities, China International Capital Corporation Limited. They delved into the potential of the Chinese market and investment prospects under the country’s commitment to technological innovation.

The green economy and sustainable development are among the key topics at this year’s forum. Corporates worldwide are actively undergoing a green transformation as regulators introduce relevant policies. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) published its first international sustainability disclosure standards, providing clear guidance for the green transition and sustainable development of corporates. In the meantime, corporates in Hong Kong will fully align the ISSB’s sustainability disclosure standards from this year. Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the ISSB, will join other speakers to share the latest progress in sustainability reporting standards.

Meanwhile, the HKTDC with AFF Knowledge Partner EY jointly conducted a survey exploring the perspectives and practices of Asian corporations and investors with regard to readiness to sustainability reporting, sustainable finance and climate change. The survey results were released today. Jack Chan, EY China Chairman and EY Greater China Regional Managing Partner, said the survey shared that an increasing number of businesses and investors are considering integrating sustainability into their operations, but barriers persist due to the lack of clearly defined frameworks and accessible resources. The survey also offers actionable insights and recommendations for companies looking to embark on a path toward sustainable development.

Global investment matchmaking and diverse exhibition zones
As one of the highlights of the forum, AFF Deal-making continues to offer an efficient one-on-one matching platform to project owners and investors. This year it has attracted over 270 investors and over 560 investment projects, covering a wide spectrum of sectors such as environment, energy and environmental technology, food and agritech, health tech, fintech, and deep tech. The Deal-making session helps foster active global collaboration and generate new business opportunities.

Diverse exhibition zones foster innovation and cross-border collaboration
This year’s AFF exhibition attracted over 140 fintech companies, start-ups and investment promotion agencies from around the world that are striving to stage an innovative and investment-driven grand financial event.

A variety of exhibition zones are featured, including the Fintech Showcase, Fintech HK Startup Salon, the InnoVenture Salon and Global Investment Zone. The InnoVenture Salon offered a platform for over 100 start-ups to showcase the application of innovative technologies across different sectors, of which the Fintech HK Startup Salon has brought together over 60 fintech start-ups, featuring cutting-edge solutions from 22 countries and regions and helping to highlight Hong Kong’s potential as a powerhouse for innovation and technology. The Global Investment Zone connects participants with business opportunities from different countries and regions.

Sharing advanced insights into exploring emerging markets
The session tomorrow offers a wide array of topics, including an exploration of the impact of AI on the financial industry. Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI, and Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, will deliver remarks at the Keynote Luncheon and Dialogues for Tomorrow respectively, exploring the development and opportunities that AI offers for the future of workforce, investors and businesses from different perspectives.

The Forum and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) co-host the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter tomorrow, making its debut this year. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, and Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, will deliver keynote remarks. Financial officials and representatives of financial institutions from Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will join industry leaders from Hong Kong to discuss the economic development of Gulf countries and the potential for financial cooperation with Hong Kong.

Additionally, the CIO Insights session, moderated by Albert Goh, Chief Investment Officer (External Managers), Exchange Fund Investment Office, Hong Kong Monetary Authority, panelists will share their views on asset allocation plans, maintaining investment convictions, and the opportunities emerging across the wider region and beyond. The session will bring together representatives from internationally renowned large corporations and family office, including Vincent Mortier, Group Chief Investment Officer of Amundi; Bei Saville, Chief Investment Officer, Treasury and Fingerboard Family Office, Advance; Manraj Sekhon, Chief Investment Officer of Templeton Global Investments; and Alexandra Wilson-Elizondo, Partner, Managing Director, and Co-Chief Investment Officer of Multi-Asset Solutions of Goldman Sachs Asset Management.

With environmental, social and governance (ESG) now playing a larger role in the development of businesses, Asia needs to look at achieving the goals set by the Paris Agreement over the next 30 years. COP29 this year have reinforced the global trend towards a green and low-carbon transition. In a session titled Dialogues for Tomorrow – Asia Dialogue on Post COP29 Implementation: Enhance Climate Ambition and Enable Financing Action, Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People’s Republic of China, will explore innovative financing mechanisms and collaboration opportunities with several leading experts to advance climate initiatives, as well as strategies to strengthen commitments and cooperation on climate goals. Additionally, Joe Tsai, Chairman of the Alibaba Group, will join the Global Spectrum session analysed the role of corporate social responsibility and philanthropy in supporting start-ups and social enterprises from a macro perspective.

For the latest edition of the AFF, the event has collaborated with several organisations to offer special discounts and privileges for travel, dining and shopping, encouraging participants to make the most of their stay in Hong Kong and experience the city’s vitality. Activities offered to visitors include the Peak Tram and Sky Terrace experience, the Aqua Luna Victoria Harbour Cruise, visits to Man Mo Temple and Tai Kwun, dining discounts in Lan Kwai Fong, access to the Winter Wonderland at Happy Valley Racecourse’s Happy Wednesday, and a dining discount provided by Lei Garden. The goal is to give overseas participants a deeper understanding of Hong Kong, promote the conference and mega event economy, and tell positive stories about the city.

Photo download: http://bit.ly/42igLNw

https://www.uphoto.cn/album_ia1082272835.html
image
image
image

Websites
– Asian Financial Forum: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en
– Programme: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/programme
– Speaker list: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/speaker

Media enquiries
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:

Agnes YiuTel: (852) 3428 5690Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Louise SongTel: (852) 3428 5691Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:

Clayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org
Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org

HKTDC Media Room: https://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 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.

Over 80,000 international buyers at HKTDC’s first three trade fairs in 2025

  • Successfully expanded customer base and injected new momentum into Hong Kong’s economy

– Three fairs attracted over 80,000 buyers from 119 countries and regions
– Buyer numbers from ASEAN countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand grew significantly
– One green toys exhibitor expected new orders generated by this year’s fair to grow by 10-15 percent over last year’s fair
– Tech toy products remained popular among buyers. A US buyer spent some US$450,000 on related products  

The 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair concluded successfully today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair and Hong Kong Baby Products Fair were organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), while the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair was jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. The four-day physical fairs attracted over 80,000 buyers from 119 countries and regions, marking a promising start for the HKTDC trade shows this year, while promoting the development of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) and driving Hong Kong’s economic growth.

As the first round of trade fairs this year, some 40,000 buyers visited the Toys & Games Fair, while more than 26,000 buyers attended the Baby Products Fair and over 14,000 buyers came to the Stationery & School Supplies Fair. The fairs adopted the HKTDC’s hybrid EXHIBITION+ model, which includes the physical shows and virtual access through the Click2Match smart business matching platform, connecting exhibitors and buyers until 16 January. 

Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “This year’s trio of fairs were very international, bringing together more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions to showcase innovative ideas from all around the globe, and kickstarting HKTDC’s 2025 calendar of events. We have actively promoted the events through more than 50 HKTDC offices around the world, and online and offline channels to attract international buyers and exhibitors to participate in the fairs and stay overnight in Hong Kong, to promote MICE tourism and Hong Kong’s economic development. This year, buyer numbers from ASEAN countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand grew significantly compared to 2024. The fairs also received European buyers from Germany, Italy, Russia and the United Kingdom, as well as those from Israel, Mexico and the US.”

Expanded new customer base and created cross-industry business opportunities
Themed New Play for All, the three exhibitions featured multiple zones, from toys for infants and toddlers to STEM education toys, smart-tech toys & games, green toys to collectible toys designed for adults with a childlike spirit, catering to the needs of all age groups and market demands.

The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair saw a floorspace expansion at the Electronic and Remote Control Toys and Educational Toys & Games zones. Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, the Toys Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong and FHKI Group 19 (Hong Kong Toys Council) presented the first ESG pavilion, showcasing toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elements. A Green Leaf Label was displayed at the booths of green exhibitors at the Toys and Stationery fairs for buyers’ easy reference. This year, over 370 exhibitors displayed products with a Green Leaf label, 70% more than last year.

Panley (H.K.) Ltd., an exhibitor selling green toys made from Forest Stewardship Council – certificated paper, adopts soy ink printing and paper packaging in the production line. The company’s senior sales manager, Peter Law said: “Buyers’ feedback has been encouraging. The number of buyers visiting our booth increased by 30-40 percent as compared to last year.  We have found more than 10 potential buyers from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Spain, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and the US. They are leading importers, distributors and school supplies buyers with strong purchasing intention. Besides, the Click2Match smart business matching platform helped us connect buyers from the Czech Republic, Spain and Thailand in advance, before we meet at the physical fair. We expect new orders generated by this year’s fair to grow by 10-15 percent over last year’s fair. The ESG Pavilion provides an excellent platform for us to promote eco-friendly toys to international buyers and demonstrate our ESG pledge. We see a bright prospect for green toys.”

Tech toy products remained popular among buyers. Odyssey Toys, a toys wholesaler from the US, sells high-tech toys, including drones, remote-controlled vehicles, and educational gadgets to retailers across the country. The company’s owner, Michael Irigoyen, said: “We found some suppliers from Mainland China and plan to spend some US$450,000 on products such as remote-controlled boats, drones, planes, and digital cameras for kids.”

Johnny Mui, Vice President – Merchandise of the Toys”R”Us (Asia) Limited, said: “The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair and Hong Kong Baby Products Fair are the must-attend international sourcing events for Toys“R”Us Asia each year. Looking ahead, we see tremendous opportunities in the growing kidult and plush segments. We are proud to contribute to and benefit from the momentum driven by Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a global hub for the toy industry.” The fair also attracted buyers from outside the toy industry. Media Prima Berhad, a multi-platform media group from Malaysia, attended the Toys & Games Fair to procure corporate promotional toys. The company’s business lead, Hafiz Nazer, stated that the total value of the orders exceeds US$100,000.

With more than 660 exhibitors, this year’s Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasted the most exhibitors ever with an increase of 7% more than last year. The popular ODM Strollers and Gear zone continued for the second consecutive year with over 80 exhibitors, made it easier than ever for buyers to source products from original design manufacturers.

Korean exhibitor i-angel Co., Ltd.,has participated in the Hong Kong Baby Products Fair since 2008, and it’s CEO, Jinseop Lee said: “Hong Kong is an international trading hub, and a perfect place for us to look for new distributors and explore new business opportunities. In fact, the fair has helped us connect with our current distributors. We launched our new collection of hipseat baby carriers at the fair this year and have received positive feedback from international buyers. We have been in touch with a potential distributor from Canada and a potential buyer from a large department store chain in Thailand. We expect to generate at least US$1 million in new orders from the fair.”

The Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair showcased the latest in creative art supplies, gift stationery, school and office supplies. Türkish exhibitor, Mercanlar Mutfak Esyalari San. Tic. A.S., presented their water bottles and back-to-school sets at the fair. The exhibitor has connected with buyers from Belarus, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the UK and US. The company’s export manager, Özlem Durmaz said: We are in proactive discussion with serval new customers with potential orders estimated at a total of US$100,000. Two US retailers were also looking to source our products, with each order amounting to more than US$100,000.”

Asian Toys & Games Forum explore social responsibility of toy makers
The flagship event Asian Toys & Games Forum was held during the Toys & Games fair. Themed Beyond Fun and Play: Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry, international toy and game industry experts discussed the role of toys and games in daily life. Terrence Hui, Executive Committee Member of Hong Kong Toys Council hosted the discussion with a panel of expert speakers and covered the opportunities for the toys industry in the health sector and the ageing market.

For more comments from exhibitors and buyers, please visit the following websites:

HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hktoyfair/en/success-stories
HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkbabyfair/en/success-stories
Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: 
https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkstationeryfair/en/success-stories

Fair Websites
HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: hktoyfair.hktdc.com
HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: hkbabyfair.hktdc.com
Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: hkstationeryfair.com

Photo Download: https://bit.ly/3PvqA3g

image
image
image
image

Media enquires
Please contact HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department: 

Sharon HaTel:2584 4575Email:sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.org
Jane CheungTel:2584 4137Email:jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org

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

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 bumediaroom.hktdc.comsiness 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.

Education & Careers Expo opens next Thursday

– Featuring free ‘CV Clinic’ with resume consultation and AI job matching services, offering over 4,000 job opportunities

  • The Expo gathers over 820 institutions from 22 countries and regions, providing the latest education and employment information
  • The four themed days include “Arts & Sports,” “Tourism & Hospitality,” “Innovation & Technology,” and “Greater Bay Area Opportunities”
  • The event offers free “CV Clinic” services including AI CV enhancement, AI job matching, one-on-one resume consultation, and resume photo-taking
  • 23 government departments and public institutions will run booths, with a designated “Aviation Corner” featuring organisations providing training and employment information, including the Airport Authority Hong Kong
  • Over 100 seminars and activities will be held, featuring renowned figures like film artist Gordon Lam and former Hong Kong athletes Vivian Ma, and Yip Pui Yin

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 34th Education & Careers Expo will be held from 16 to 19 January (Thursday to Sunday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Expo is divided into “Education” and “Careers” sections, bringing together over 820 institutions from 22 countries and regions, offering more than 4,000 job opportunities as well as comprehensive education, training, and employment information for students and job seekers. This year’s Expo also introduces a free “CV Clinic,” including AI resume enhancement, AI job matching, one-on-one resume consultations and resume photo-taking services, and is free to all members of the public. Pre-registered visitors will receive a complimentary gift, limited availability on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is encouraged.

Jenny Koo, HKTDC Assistant Executive Director, said: “This year’s Expo, titled ‘Go with Your Passion, Go Beyond Limits,’ features four themed days covering arts and sports, tourism and hospitality, innovation and technology, and opportunities in the Greater Bay Area, providing a comprehensive forum to develop social needs and address market demands. In the ‘Education’ section, students have the opportunity to interact directly with educational institutions and training organisations and explore programmes and admission guidelines worldwide; on the ‘Careers’ front, various government departments, public bodies, and private enterprises are actively recruiting. The Expo supports students and working professionals in pursuing their dreams and career development, aligning with the government’s policies of finding high calibre talents and developing Hong Kong into an international hub for post-secondary education.

Applied Gerontology degree programme offered by the Tung Wah College steers the development of the silver economy
The “Education” section of this year’s Expo features four zones: “Local Studies,” “Non-Hong Kong Education,” “Lifelong Learning,” and “Youth Zone.” The “Local Studies” zone showcases numerous universities and tertiary institutions; the Tung Wah College offers a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Gerontology degree to train experts to serve the elderly and promote the silver economy and covers topics like end-of-life education related to issues raised in the film The Last Dance. The Vocational Training Council offers programmes like a Higher Diploma in Tourism and Mega Event Management to cultivate talent in the mega event industry. The government previously launched the “Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development,” creating more opportunities for the industry. The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and the Hong Kong Art School will introduce programmes designed to foster talent in these fields at the Expo.

Gathering education insights from across 22 countries and regions
The Expo offers education insights from across 22 countries and regions in total. In particular, the “Non-Hong Kong Education” zone features exhibitors such as consulates, institutions, universities, and education centres from outside Hong Kong. They will offer consultation services and insights on pursuing education in various countries and regions including Mainland China, Europe, America, Asia and more. The “Lifelong Learning” zone caters to individuals of all ages, with exhibitors like the Table for Choices Limited using theatrical games to create a new educational model from a traditional setting. The “Youth Zone” offers career planning, continuous learning information, as well as various job opportunities like summer jobs, internships, and full-time positions for young people. For the first time, the Prince Philip Dental Hospital will participate in the Expo, bringing programmes for training dental assistants.

The Expo’s Careers section offers free “CV Clinic” services
The “Careers” section of the Expo presents over 4,000 job opportunities, with a number of government departments and public institutions present, including the Fire Services Department, Civil Service Bureau, and the Immigration Department, along with social welfare organisations, banks, and insurance companies, all looking to recruit at the Expo. This year sees the introduction of the “Aviation Corner,” where aviation-related organisations like the Airport Authority Hong Kong will provide information for those aspiring to enter the aviation industry.

The “Recruitment Square”, comprised of various recruitment platforms, will be accepting job applications on-site, with some offering on-the-spot interviews. Job seekers are encouraged to bring their resumes.

This year the fair has introduced a new “CV Clinic” service in collaboration with recruitment platform TechJobAsia. The service helps job seekers review and enhance their resumes through an AI-powered system. They can also match their resumes with over 4,000 job vacancies from employers at the Expo and interact with potential employers on-site. Additionally, TechJobAsia will provide one-on-one resume consultation services on the second and fourth days (17 and 19 January) of the Expo. Employment consultants from recruitment platform Jobsdb will also offer one-on-one resume consultation services and free resume photos throughout the four-day exhibition. Job seekers can access the CV Clinic and make appointments for counselling through the Education & Careers Expo website. On-site services have limited places and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis so visitors are advised to register online in advance.

Four themed days introduce career trends and industry prospects
During the Expo, over 100 exciting activities will be held, with four themed days offering job seekers strategies for entering different industries and inviting celebrities and industry professionals to share their experiences. Renowned actor, scriptwriter, and producer Gordon Lam will share his own experiences on 17 January, inspiring students to forge ahead in their learning and creative journeys.

image

Visitors can pre-register on the fair website to participate in the above events, as well as other seminars in the themed day series and star-sharing sessions. Seats are limited, and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Those who pre-register and attend the event will receive a dedicated gift.

Photo download: https://bit.ly/4fQ4eUR

image

Education & Careers Expo Website: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkeducationexpo/en
Events’ information: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkeducationexpo/en/intelligence-hub

HKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en

Media enquiries
HKTDC’s Corporate Communications Department:

Clementine CheungTel: (852) 2584 4369Email: clementine.hm.cheung@hktdc.org
Stanley So    Tel: (852) 2584 4049Email: stanley.hp.so@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.

Strengthening Supply Chains for a Sustainable Future

  • Mainland is the Prime Location for GBA Businesses to Build Supply Chain Resilience, with ASEAN the No.1 Overseas Option

More than 90% of manufacturing businesses in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) have either completed their supply chain transformation or have the process well underway. This is the key finding of GBA Supply Chain Diversity: Enhancing Connectivity Among ASEAN, Hong Kong, and the Mainland, a joint report published today by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and UOB Hong Kong.

The report also found that 72% of GBA-based manufacturing companies have already committed to actively bolstering the resilience of their supply chains, with the remainder expected to follow suit within two years. In another positive finding, a significant proportion of survey respondents saw Hong Kong as an indispensable link between the GBA and the ASEAN bloc, while also having a high regard for the city’s expertise in the green finance and professional services sectors.

The report’s conclusions were based on an in-depth survey of more than 600 GBA-based companies conducted in the third quarter of 2024. Within its comprehensive remit, the research also set out to determine the key drivers of supply chain diversification, identify the overseas markets GBA businesses are primarily targeting and evaluate the success of the green and sustainable development initiatives implemented by such enterprises.

In order to track the evolving trends, the survey findings were compared with the results of two HKTDC-UOB Hong Kong studies conducted in 2023: Navigating Connectivity – Exploring ASEAN Opportunities for the Greater Bay Area and Sustainability in the GBA: Unlocking Opportunities and Empowering Growth.

Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience
For most GBA-based businesses, the mainland remained their preferred choice when it came to both diversifying their supply chain arrangements and broadening their range of production options. For those looking to diversify their supply chains by incorporating overseas locations, ASEAN was the number one choice, with 84% of the surveyed enterprises indicating they had plans in place to maintain or expand their production/sourcing activities within the bloc. The primary reason for this preference (as cited by 39% of respondents) was the positive nature of China-ASEAN trade relations, with the benefits accruing from both the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) also widely acknowledged.

Of the individual ASEAN markets, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia were the preferred choices for both current and future business activities. The rising level of business interest in the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos and Brunei, however, was also notable.

The key challenges to successfully entering the various ASEAN markets, meanwhile, were seen as finding suitable and capable local service providers (as cited by 32% of respondents), followed by maintaining data security (25%) and finding talent with the required expertise (25%). Tellingly, many of the issues designated as primary concerns in the 2023 study – difficulties in navigating local government policies and regulations relating to foreign investment and culture/language barriers – featured less prominently in the more recent survey.

In line with the perceived success of the overall upgrade programme, the majority of survey respondents (60%) now see the GBA’s supply chains as characterised by a high level of innovation, collectively underpinned by the extensive deployment of effective digital solutions.

ESG and Sustainability
In addition to their focus on bolstering the resilience of their supply chains, many GBA businesses remained committed to accelerating their ESG initiatives. As a sign of this, 81% of survey respondents had active green and sustainable development programmes in place – 16 percentage points higher than the 65% recorded in 2023.

Respondents also indicated a greater willingness to increase their level of ESG investment, with an average increase of about 25% planned over the next two years. This will see the relevant budget allocations average HK$462,535, well above the 2023 figure of HK$371,333.

Commenting on the findings, Irina Fan, the HKTDC’s Director of Research said: “GBA companies are now demonstrating a real commitment to sustainability, as shown by the planned 25% increase in ESG investment over the next two years. As there are about three million enterprises in the GBA, this could equate to total ESG-related investment of some HK$1.3 trillion.”

Adaline Zheng, CEO of UOB Hong Kong, said: “As businesses in GBA continue to evolve and adapt to emerging trends, we are committed to supporting their journey towards sustainable growth and resilience. By leveraging our robust foreign direct investment advisory unit and strong Hong Kong platform, we provide tailored solutions and insights to facilitate GBA companies’ expansion into ASEAN markets. The increasing focus on diversifying supply chains and enhancing connectivity with ASEAN underscores the pivotal role of collaboration and innovation in today’s dynamic market. Together, we empower businesses to not only thrive in a competitive landscape but also to contribute positively to our shared future.”

Hong Kong: The GBA-ASEAN Super Connector
Another clear finding of the 2024 survey was the success Hong Kong has found in carving out its unique niche as the GBA-ASEAN super-connector.

This was reflected in the score GBA-based businesses accorded both Hong Kong’s Connectivity with the ASEAN Bloc and Hong Kong’s Connectivity with Mainland GBA Cities – eight out of 10, a one-point year-on-year increase.

In a further endorsement, 80% of 2024 respondents indicated a willingness to both learn more about Hong Kong’s green professional services and to use such services more frequently, a significant increase on the 2023 figure of 70%.

Notes for Editors
The GBA is the Greater Bay Area (also known as the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area), a priority development area that comprises nine mainland cities in Guangdong province (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Huizhou, and Zhaoqing) as well as two Special Administrative Regions, Hong Kong, and Macao.

Related materials
– HKTDC Research: https://research.hktdc.com/en
– The report in Chinese – GBA Supply Chain Diversity: Enhancing Connectivity Among ASEAN, Hong Kong and Mainland China can be downloaded from the websites of HKTDC and UOB Hong Kong.

Photos Download: https://bit.ly/4j6hvvj

image

Media enquiries
HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Katy Wong      Tel: (852) 2584 4524        Email: katy.ky.wong@@hktdc.org
Clayton Lauw   Tel: (852) 2584 4472        Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org

UOB Hong Kong:
Susanna Liu    Tel: (852) 2123 7537        Email: susanna.liuwy@uobgroup.com
Sarah Tsang    Tel: (852) 2123 7536        Email: sarah.tsangsw@uobgroup.com

Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Tiffany Leung  Tel: (852) 3428 2361        Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk
Hing-fung Wong Tel: (852) 3428 3122        Email: hfwong@yuantung.com.hk

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. 

About UOB
UOB is a leading bank in Asia. Operating through its head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, UOB has a global network of around 500 offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Since its incorporation in 1935, UOB has grown organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions. Today, UOB is rated among the world’s top banks: Aa1 by Moody’s Investors Service and AA- by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings.

For nearly nine decades, UOB has adopted a customer-centric approach to create long-term value by staying relevant through its enterprising spirit and doing right by its customers. UOB is focused on building the future of ASEAN – for the people and businesses within, and connecting with, ASEAN.

The Bank connects businesses to opportunities in the region with its unparalleled regional footprint and leverages data and insights to innovate and create personalised banking experiences and solutions catering to each customer’s unique needs and evolving preferences. UOB is also committed to helping businesses forge a sustainable future, by fostering social inclusiveness, creating positive environmental impact and pursuing economic progress. UOB believes in being a responsible financial services provider and is steadfast in its support of art, social development of children and education, doing right by its communities and stakeholders. 

‘Think Business, Think Hong Kong’ opened doors to more fruitful, sustainable Hong Kong-Indonesia partnership

  • Some 2,000 participants explored Hong Kong’s advantages and strengths

– 1,500+ participants attended the full-day symposium to explore the latest business opportunities across sectors and Hong Kong’s latest developments
– Symposium facilitated 200+ business matching meetings
– 400+ Indonesian and Hong Kong business leaders joined the gala dinner

The Think Business, Think Hong Kong (TBTHK) mega promotion organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) was successfully held on 8 January in Jakarta, Indonesia.

To promote bilateral trade and investment between Hong Kong and Indonesia, TBTHK attracted some 2,000 participants. Over 1,500 participants attended the full-day symposium to explore the latest business opportunities across sectors and Hong Kong’s latest developments. At the same time, over 400 leaders of the Indonesian and Hong Kong business communities joined the gala dinner for further networking and dialogue.

Dr Peter K N Lam, HKTDC Chairman, Mr Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government and Dr Edi Prio Pambudi, Deputy Minister for Coordination of International Economic Cooperation, attended the opening ceremony.

Dr Lam stated, “TBTHK is our annual flagship promotion that aims to strengthen business ties between Hong Kong and our major international partners. Indonesia has long been an important partner for Hong Kong. As we meet local government and business leaders on this visit, we look to strengthen our bilateral ties.”

He added, “We have long been known for our strengths in traditional sectors, such as finance, trade, logistics and professional services. With the tremendous advances we have been making in newer sectors, such as innovation and sustainability, many opportunities await Indonesian businesses in our dynamic world city.”

Mr Chan, in his speech, stated that Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of one country, two systems, enabling it to serve as a superconnector and super value-adder between China and the rest of the world.

He said, “Under ‘one country’, we enjoy the full support of our motherland to develop as international financial, shipping and trade centres as well as an international hub for high-calibre talent. We also benefit from the national development strategy of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, or GBA.”

He added, “The GBA is not just a huge consumer market. It pools together the financial and professional service capabilities of Hong Kong as well as the tech and advanced manufacturing capabilities of Shenzhen and other cities, like Dongguan and Huizhou.”

And under “two systems”, he pointed out, “Foreign companies with a presence in Hong Kong, including Indonesian companies, can leverage the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) between the mainland and Hong Kong to gain easy and unparalleled access to the immense mainland market.”

Dr Edi Prio Pambudi said, “We aim to achieve ambitious growth targets, as we work towards our vision of becoming an advanced economy by 2045, including a GDP growth rate of 8%, as outlined by President Prabowo. Achieving this target requires robust collaboration between Indonesia and key partners, like Hong Kong. It is imperative that we continue to seek support and engagement of Hong Kong corporations to further drive Indonesia’s economic development.”

He added, “Hong Kong’s contributions as investors and innovators are essential to achieving our goals to create a diversified and resilient economy that will generate high-quality jobs, foster sustainable development and ensure long-term prosperity for both Indonesia and Hong Kong, while also driving Indonesia towards economic milestones that benefit not only our nation, but also the global community.”

Notable speakers discussing opportunities in finance, smart city and sustainability
At the symposium, leaders of the Indonesian business communities highlighted how Hong Kong plays an essential role as a superconnector and super value-adder, linking Mainland China and the rest of the world, especially the dynamic ASEAN region, for businesses across diverse sectors, including finance, smart city, sustainability, transportation, innovation and technology (I&T) and more. By showcasing these strengths, the event reinforced Hong Kong’s status as the preferred destination in Asia for international businesses, talent and investment.

The symposium’s plenary session featured renowned speakers, including The Honourable Bernard Charnwut Chan, Chairman and President of Asia Financial Holdings Ltd, Mr Guy Bradley, Chairman of Swire Pacific Limited, Mr Kenneth Hui, Executive Director (External) of Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mrs Shinta Widjaja Kamdani, CEO of Sintesa Group and Chairwoman of Indonesian Employer’s Association, and Mr Rex Sham Co-Founder & Chief Science Officer of Insight Robotics Limited. They discussed the global outlook, while examining opportunities for Hong Kong and Indonesian businesses to propel regional development, paving the way for sustainable growth.

Subsequently, four thematic sessions were held. A session co-organised with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), “RMB Opportunities in International Trade and Hong Kong’s Strategic Role”, highlighted how Hong Kong played a pivotal role in the wider use of RMB in the region over the past 10-15 years. It also discussed how Mainland China and Indonesian businesses can leverage Hong Kong’s financial strengths and the multifaceted benefits of RMB use to become part of a growing economic partnership.  

A thematic session supported by Cyberport, “Building for the Future”, explored Hong Kong’s vibrant PropTech sector that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT, driving efficiency and growth across mobility, living, decarbonisation and governance.    

Another session co-organised with Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), “Hong Kong – An Ideal Business Hub for Supply Chain Companies and Beyond”, highlighted Hong Kong’s strengths in multinational supply chains and providing one-stop support for international businesses. It also discussed how the global supply chain is being reshaped and how Hong Kong is well equipped to support the industry in navigating this changing landscape.  

The fourth session on “Innovations in Green Technology for a Sustainable Tomorrow” highlighted Hong Kong’s leadership in innovative green-tech solutions and discussed the groundbreaking opportunities for a more resilient and sustainable future for Indonesia and markets along the Belt and Road.  

Networking sessions for further collaboration
The symposium brought together 22 exhibitors from diverse sectors from Hong Kong. An InnoVenture Salon exhibition with Hong Kong start-ups, including Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation, Ambit Geospatial Solution Limited, Binery Limited (Pintar Investments), Leapstack International Limited and One Energy (HK) Limited, showcased their innovative solutions. Meanwhile, business advisory bodies, including Conpak CPA Limited and InvestHK, were on-site at the Business Support Zone to offer consultations to businesses looking to set up operations in Hong Kong. The symposium also facilitated over 200 on-site business matching meetings between Indonesian and Hong Kong companies.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board also set up a Hong Kong Café at the symposium for guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant neighbourhood of “Old Town Central”, while enjoying authentic Hong Kong snacks, such as milk tea and egg waffles, which embody the city’s unique East-meets-West spirit.

Following the symposium, the Hong Kong Dinner was held at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place hosting Mr Chan, Ms Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, Vice Minister of Trade, Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, and H.E. Wang LutongAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China in Indonesia. It was attended by over 400 prominent guests from political and business circles.  

Photo Download: https://bit.ly/4fRPS6v

image
image

Video: http://bit.ly/3DXmYUZ  

Media enquiries
Advo Public Relations
Friska Rani   Tel: 081298980400     Email: friska@advo-indonesia.com

HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department:
Snowy Chan    Tel: (852) 2584 4525  Email: snowy.sn.chan@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.

Asian Financial Forum held next week as the region’s first major international financial assembly of 2025

  • Fostering growth momentum and exploring new opportunities for global finance in a period of change

– The 18th Asian Financial Forum 2025 (AFF) will be held on 13 and 14 January (Monday and Tuesday), attracting more than 3,600 and finance and business heavyweights
– Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the forum will examine new global business opportunities in different industries in 2025, exploring how Hong Kong can leverage its strengths as an international financial centre to seek breakthroughs in a period of change
– This year’s AFF has invited more than 100 global business leaders and policymakers to speak, including Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012); Prof Stuart Russell, Co-Chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI; Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures; and Joe Tsai, Chairman of the Alibaba
– Representatives from organisations such as AXA, Citigroup, Federated Hermes, HSBC, Lenovo, Primavera Capital Group and more will showcase Hong Kong’s draw as an international financial and business hub
– The Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter, a new addition to this year’s forum, will focus on opportunities in financial collaboration between member states of the GCC and Hong Kong

The 18th Asian Financial Forum 2025 (AFF), co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 13 and 14 January (Monday and Tuesday). As the region’s first major international financial conference in 2025, the forum will examine the landscape for new business opportunities in various industries and regions in the coming year and promote global cooperation, and is expected to attract more than 3,600 finance and business heavyweights.

Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the AFF will bring together more than 100 global policymakers, business leaders, financial experts and investors, entrepreneurs, tech companies and economists to share their views on the shifting global economic landscape and financial ecosystem. These industry experts will dissect the risk management strategy, discover new business opportunities, and explore how Hong Kong can seek breakthroughs in a period of change.

First flagship financial event to showcase Hong Kong’s financial strengths
Launched in 2007, the AFF has become a flagship financial event for Hong Kong and the broader region, highlighting the city’s pivotal role as a globally renowned financial hub with a highly competitive economic and business environment. Amid a rapidly changing global macroeconomic landscape, and shifts in geopolitical dynamics and monetary policies, Hong Kong’s financial services sector continues to leverage its strengths across various domains, drawing on its world-class business infrastructure and robust regulatory regime to help drive cooperation and mutual success across Asia and around the world.

Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR Government, said: “Hong Kong’s financial market went through a lot of reforms and innovation last year. We have also launched a roadmap on sustainability disclosure in Hong Kong and issued a policy statement on responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market with a view to boosting green finance and sustainable financing. The upcoming Asian Financial Forum will gather the top-tier of the financial and various sectors from all around the world, the Mainland and in Hong Kong and hence is the perfect occasion for us to showcase to the world the new momentum and latest advantages of Hong Kong in the financial realm. Participants will also have a chance to learn more about how Hong Kong can partner with them to explore new collaborations and development areas while expanding their network here.”

Luanne Lim, Chairperson of the AFF Steering Committee and Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, of HSBC, said: “The global economy faces greater uncertainties in 2025 compared to 2024. However, robust growth in India and ASEAN nations, combined with increased policy support from Mainland China, is expected to keep Asia’s (ex-Japan) GDP growth at a strong 4.4%, well above the global average of 2.7%.” Against this backdrop, this year’s Asia Financial Forum is aptly themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine” and will focus on high-potential markets such as ASEAN, the Middle East (particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council countries), and the role that Hong Kong can play. Ms Lim said Hong Kong’s unique role as a bridge between the mainland and international markets allows it to support mainland enterprises expanding globally. She added that Hong Kong is committed to attracting global talent and investors, driving growth for both mainland and international businesses.

Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “As we move into the new year, different economies around the world are facing challenges in maintaining economic growth. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong is playing an important role both as a ‘super-connector’ and a ‘super value-adder’ to link the world, enabling investors and fundraisers to leverage the city’s professional services and investment platforms to facilitate collaboration and create business opportunities. This year’s forum not only brings together heavyweight speakers and thought leaders but also builds on the success of previous years to provide a business platform for international participants, promoting financial and business cooperation and working together to launch new engines for growth.”

Exploring new trends as the world’s economic centre of gravity continues its shift east

Reflecting on a trend where the world’s economic centre of gravity continues to take an eastward shift, Christopher Hui will host two plenary sessions on emerging prospects in the region on the first day of the forum (13 January). The morning session of Plenary Session I will feature H.E. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, finance ministers from countries such as Pakistan and Luxembourg, and Yoshiki Takeuchi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), who together will explore the financial policy outlook for 2025. In the afternoon, Plenary Session II will bring together leaders from multilateral organisations to share their views on the role of multilateral cooperation in regional economic development. Speakers will include Roberta Casali, Vice-President, Finance and Risk Management, Asian Development Bank; Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Moreover, a new session, the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter, will bring together HE Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), speakers from the Middle East and local experts to discuss prospects in fostering financial cooperation and investment between the member states of the GCC and Hong Kong.

Also on the first day, Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, will host the Policy Dialogue session with speakers including European representatives such as Philip Lane, Chief Economist and Member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank, and Dr Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland. The discussion will explore the opportunities and challenges arising from the global shift towards more accommodative monetary policies and national authorities’ strategic deployment of measures to revitalise their economies and accelerate growth through innovation.

The panel discussion on China Opportunities returns this year with senior figures invited to analyse investment prospects under China’s commitment to technological innovation and its impact on global business. The panellists included Li Yimei, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management; and Ken Wong, Executive Vice President of Lenovo and President of Lenovo Solutions & Services Group.

Top economist and leading AI expert take the stage at keynote luncheons
Another highlight of this year’s AFF will be the two keynote luncheons featuring thematic speeches by two distinguished guests: Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), and Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum Council on AI. These two prominent figures will dissect the evolution of the global economic landscape amid changing international dynamics, and examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a new driving force for rapid global economic growth respectively.

Exploring hot topics in the financial and economic sectors
The afternoon panel discussion, Global Economic Outlook, will feature a special address from Liu Haoling, Vice Chairman, President and Chief Investment Officer, China Investment Corporation. The panel will analyse international economic trends and provide insights into business opportunities and wealth accumulation in emerging industries and regions in 2025.

Other sessions titled Global Spectrum, Dialogues for Tomorrow and Thematic Workshop will feature in-depth discussions focusing on the latest industry trends, including AI, Web 3.0, sustainability, philanthropy and family offices. As AI becomes increasingly widespread and diversified in its societal applications, the second day of the forum will introduce a special session, Dialogue with Kai-Fu Lee, in which Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, will discuss the transformative power of AI and its impact on technological advancements in the global business ecosystem.

Exploring the impact of sustainable disclosure on investment strategies
Sustainable finance and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations have become an irreversible global trend. In 2025, Hong Kong is set to fully align its regulatory framework with the sustainability disclosure standard of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the ISSB, will join other experts in discussing how adopting international financial sustainability disclosure standards can strengthen market confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets, address post-COP29 implementation in Asia, and share strategies for sustainable investing across three separate sessions. In addition, the Breakfast Panel on the second day will focus on the flows of transition finance in shaping a sustainable future in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. Furthermore, the HKTDC has partnered with EY to conduct a joint market survey on sustainable development, aiming to explore the views and practices of Asian businesses and investors on topics such as sustainability reporting, sustainable finance and preparations for dealing with climate change. The results of the survey will be unveiled on the first day of the forum.

Expanding cross-border opportunities through the HK global investment platform
As a key element of this year’s forum, AFF Deal-making offers one-on-one matching services for project owners and investors. More than 270 investors and 560 projects are expected to participate, with investment opportunities across industries such as environmental, energy, clean technology, food and agriculture tech, healthcare tech, fintech and deep technology. The exhibition sections of the AFF – Fintech Showcase, InnoVenture Salon, FintechHK Startup Salon and Global Investment Zone – will attract more than 130 local and global exhibitors, international financial institutions, technology companies, start-ups, investment promotion agencies and sponsors, including Knowledge Partner EY, HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Standard Chartered Bank, UBS, Prudential, China International Capital Corporation (CICC), Huatai International and more. Notably, the InnoVenture Salon will provide a platform for more than 100 start-ups to showcase innovative technologies in a variety of fields such as finance, regulation, sustainability, health and agriculture, supported by more than 110 Investment Mentors and Community Partners.

IFW 2025 creates synergies with AFF to boost mega event economy
International Financial Week (IFW) 2025 runs from 13 to 17 January with the AFF as its highlight event. This year’s IFW will feature more than 20 partner events, covering a wide range of global financial and business topics, including private equity, family offices, net-zero investing and generative AI. As the region’s first major financial event of the year, the AFF attracts top global enterprises and leaders to Hong Kong, creating connections between capital and opportunities. The forum assists industry professionals in seizing opportunities in the new year and helps promote the mega event economy in Hong Kong.

This year, the AFF has collaborated with various organisations to provide special travel, dining and shopping discounts and privileges for overseas participants joining the event. Activities include Peak Tram and Sky Terrace trips, the iconic Aqua Luna red-sail junk boat, and guided tours of Man Mo Temple and Tai Kwun arranged by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Participants can also enjoy dining discounts and guided tours from the Lan Kwai Fong Group, as well as the Winter Wonderland at the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Happy Wednesday at Happy Valley Racecourse, all designed to immerse overseas visitors in the vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong.

Websites:
Asian Financial Forum: 
https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en
Programme: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/programme
Speaker list: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/speaker

Media representatives who would like to conduct interviews with AFF speakers should submit interview requests to ayiu@yuantung.com.hk or lsong@yuantung.com.hk by 8 January 2025.

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

image
image

Media enquiries
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:

Agnes YiuTel: (852) 3428 5690Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Louise SongTel: (852) 3428 5691Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:

Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org
Clayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@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.

2025 Toys & Games Fair, Baby Products Fair, Stationery & School Supplies Fair open today

  • Over 2,500 exhibitors driving new cross-industry opportunities; a promising start for 2025 trade shows

– Themed New Play for All, the trio of fairs brings together more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions
– The number of exhibitors at Hong Kong Baby Products Fair achieves a record high; over 380 well-known toy and baby products brands in the Brand Name Gallery
– The three fairs reveal several product trends, including digitisation, green toys, and the popularity of cross-age group products
– Asian Toys & Games Forum will be held tomorrow, gathering international experts to discuss the social responsibilities of the toy industry

Kicking off a brand new year, the 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, launched today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and will take place over four consecutive days.

Hong Kong SAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Acting Executive Director Sophia Chong, and HKTDC Toys Advisory Committee Chairman Bryant Chan officiated the Joint Opening Ceremony of the Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair today, launching the 51st edition of Asia’s flagship Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair.

Algernon Yau, HKSAR Government Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, said at the opening ceremony: “Entering the 51st year of the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, I have full confidence that the event, together with the concurrent Hong Kong Baby Products Fair, will continue to feature different innovative and distinctive products that are intriguing to all and, more importantly, facilitate business promotion and consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a global sourcing as well as convention and exhibition hub.”

Sophia Chong, HKTDC Acting Executive Director, said: “This year’s Toy Fair marks an important milestone and a new chapter for the toy industry. The three fairs are themed New Play for All, and feature multiple zones, from toys for infants and toddlers to collectible toys designed for adults with a childlike spirit, as well as STEM education toys, smart-tech toys & games and green toys, catering to the needs of all age groups and meeting market demand.

“The three fairs have drawn over 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions, including pavilions from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia and Europe, presenting cross-industry business opportunities to visitors. The HKTDC has proactively arranged more than 200 buying missions from over 40 countries and regions, and invited various Hong Kong-based international buyers and local enterprises including several large international e-commerce platforms, importers, department stores, specialty stores, retail chains, and procurement offices, creating new opportunities for the industry,” added Chong.

Three fairs reveal multiple product trends
Several product trends from this year’s exhibitors provide visitors from other industries with cross-industry business opportunities. These include:

– Digitised products: Many traditional toy and game manufacturers and brands are integrating electronics and new technologies with toys to enhance playability, such as the Dynamie Pixel Piano (Booth: 1E-C02), Upset Dog (Booth: 1C-F02), and the NASA Spirit Rover (Booth: 1C-F33).
– Learning and play combined: In the hope that kids can learn while having fun, many parents choose toys that can improve cognitive, social, intellectual, and aesthetic development. As a result, there is a greater demand for educational and intellectual products, such as the Giant Panda Anatomy Model (Booth: 1D-C12), Adventure Globe (Booth: 1E-A02), Children’s Play Sofa (Booth: 3F-G04), and Water Transfer Painting Set (Booth: 5B-B01).
– Demand for sustainable products: As sustainable consumption has grown, more parents are inclined to choose eco-friendly toys to reduce their environmental impact. Examples include straw DIY marble run blocks (Booth: 1C-D02) and the Voices of Nature series of puzzles (Booth: 1D-A08).
– Cross-age groups products: There is a growing popularity of toy designs and styles that cater to a wide range of age groups. Toys are no longer just for children;  adults and even elderly are collecting toys, making the collectibles market a significant part of the toy industry. The Astro Boy Mechanical Clear Version (Booth: 1D-A26) is one example. The fair is actively developing the ageing market as well. For instance, a Hong Kong exhibitor has designed a wall game suitable for both the elderly and children, where the user must rotate cogs with both hands, and the vibrant visual stimulus helps to enhance concentration and left-right brain coordination (Booth: 1D-D22).

Exhibition space growth in multiple zones at the Toys & Games Fair
Toys & Games Fair saw an expansion in exhibition space in two major zones. This includes the Electronic & Remote Control Toys (up 40%) and Educational Toys & Games zones (up 7%). The Green Toys zone makes a welcome return and showcase eco-friendly and innovative products with a Green Leaf Label displayed at the booths of green exhibitors for buyers’ easy reference. This year, over 370 exhibitors have the Green Leaf label, an increase of 70% from the last edition.

Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, the Toys Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong and FHKI Group 19 (Hong Kong Toys Council) present the first ESG Pavilion to showcase toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elements, including products made entirely from eco-friendly or recycled materials. Exhibitors are using various creative methods to promote sustainable development, emphasising the value of social responsibility and ESG fundamentals.

This year’s Toys Fair has an impressive pavilion lineup, including exhibitors from Mainland China, Taiwan and Korea, as well as selected European exhibitors at the Spielwarenmesse eG’s World of Toys Pavilion. Exhibits include Glow-in-the-Dark Slime (Booth: 1CON-068), Genius Square board game (Booth: 1CON-061), and more. The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association (HKBTA) Pavilion once again promotes the local creative industry and trendy toy products to international buyers.

Record number of exhibitors at Baby Products Fair
With more than 660 exhibitors, this year’s Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasts the most exhibitors ever. The popular ODM Strollers and Gear zone is back for the second consecutive year, featuring over 80 exhibitors, making it easier than ever for buyers to source products from original design manufacturers. The Selection of Europe Pavilion returns and feature, for the first time, the UK’s Baby Products Industry Association putting a spotlight on quality European baby brands and products, such as cribs and hearing protection earmuffs. This year sees the return of several popular pavilions, including well-known Korean and Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association pavilions. Making their debut this year is the Zhejiang Zhili pavilion presents an array of high-quality infant and children’s clothing.

The Toys & Games and Baby Products Fairs continue to feature the popular Brand Name Gallery, bringing together over 380 well-known brands from around the globe, including ABC Design, AURORA, Eastcolight, Hape, Masterkidz, Osann, Rastar, Uncle Bubble and Welly, allowing buyers to source the latest designs and high-quality products from a variety of brands.

Jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair features the latest school and office supplies, creative art supplies and gift stationery.  Various high-quality stationery brands are showcased, including 555, AP Group, CJP, Chung Tin, Colorlutions, Diakakis, Kaywin, Kuoda, Marshmallow, MUST, Renga, Sayyed, Tercel and Zhengda, among others, presenting innovative products.

Asian Toys & Games Forum explores the important roles of toys everyday life
The Asian Toys & Games Forum will be held tomorrow (7 January). Themed Beyond Fun and Play: Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry, international toy and game industry experts will discuss the industry’s latest topics, including The Toys and Games Market Outlook and Opportunities by Clifton Chiu, Senior Research Analyst, Euromonitor International (Hong Kong), The Power of Play for Healthcare and Wellness by Dr Vinci Cheung, Psychologist, Head of Family and Child Services, The Companions CCM Ltd, Integrating AI Smart Toys into Social Life by Larry Wang, Founder & CEO, FoloToy Creative Pte Ltd, and Designing Toys for Active and Better Ageing by Dr Sittha Sukkasi, Senior Researcher in Environment Research Group, MTEC, NSTDA, while a representative of the Hong Kong Toys Council will host the discussion and explore with the speakers on the opportunities for the toys industry in the health sector and the ageing market.

In today’s The Evolution of Stationery in the Digital Era at the Stationery & School Supplies Fair, John Yeung from Google Hong Kong, Professor Siu Cheung Kong from The Education University of Hong Kong and Mike Cheung from Microsoft Hong Kong will dive into the new demands for stationery from the current Generation Z, Generation Alpha, and the ageing market, as well as the profound impact of artificial intelligence and technology on the field of education.

Other seminars will cover popular topics such green toys trend, green stationery, baby products market trends, latest toy safety regulations, toy specifications, testing and certification. Helping buyers and sellers to broaden their business networks and learn about the most recent market trends, there are many networking events, buyer forums, product demo and launch pad, and seminars throughout the fair period.

The three exhibitions offer buyers a one-stop sourcing platform, creating more cross-industry business opportunities. Under the EXHIBITION+ model, the fairs integrate physical exhibition and the Click2Match smart business platform for online business meetings. The online exhibition is accessible until 16 January, to sustain and create greater business opportunities for the industry. Buyers can also scan QR codes at exhibitor booths using the Scan2Match service to bookmark their favourite exhibitors, browse product information and engage with exhibitors even after the fair to make for more business connections.

Photo Download: https://bit.ly/4gLIIBB

image
image
image

Fair Websites
HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: hktoyfair.hktdc.com
HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: hkbabyfair.hktdc.com
Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: hkstationeryfair.com

Media enquires
Please contact HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department:

Sharon HaTel：2584 4575Email：sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.org
Jane CheungTel：2584 4137       Email：jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org

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. 

Asia’s flagship toy fair kicks off 2025 trade shows

– Baby Products Fair, Stationery & School Supplies Fair open concurrently next Monday

  • Themed “New Play for All”, the three international events bring together over 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions
  • Toys & Games Fair’s Electronic & Remote Control Toys and Educational Toys & Games zones have expanded, in addition to the debut of an ESG pavilion
  • Record number of exhibitors at Hong Kong Baby Products Fair
  • HKTDC organised over 200 buying missions from more than 40 countries and regions to Hong Kong for sourcing

Kicking off a brand new year, the 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair will all be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 6 to 9 January. The Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair and Hong Kong Baby Products Fair are organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), while the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair is jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.

Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “Themed New Play for All, the three fairs attracted more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions, including pavilions from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, Korea, and Europe. We have also invited more than 200 buying missions from over 40 countries and regions to Hong Kong for sourcing, creating new opportunities for the industry and injecting new momentum into Hong Kong’s economic development.

The Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair continue to feature the popular ‘Brand Name Gallery’, with 40% more brands compared to last year, and totalling more than 380 famous toys, baby and children’s brands, enabling buyers to source the latest designs and quality products.”

Asia’s flagship toy fair sees expansion in two major exhibition zones
As the flagship toy fair in Asia and the HKTDC’s first trade show of the year, the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, along with the Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, bring cross-industry business opportunities to visitors from diverse sectors.

This year’s Toys & Games Fair sees an expansion in exhibition space in two major zones. This includes the Electronic & Remote Control Toys and Educational Toys & Games zones.

The Green Toys zone makes a welcome return and will showcase eco-friendly and innovative products.

In addition, many exhibitors have introduced toys that incorporate green elements and promote environmental awareness in recent years. Both the Toys & Games Fair and the Stationery & School Supplies Fair will feature “Green Leaf” label on-site to facilitate buyers in sourcing related products.

Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, the Toys Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong and FHKI Group 19 (Hong Kong Toys Council) will present the first ESG Pavilion showcasing toys incorporating Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) elements, including products made entirely from eco-friendly or recycled materials. Exhibitors are using various creative methods to promote sustainable development, emphasising the value of social responsibility and ESG fundamentals.

This year’s Toys Fair has an impressive pavilion lineup, including those from Mainland China, Taiwan, Korea, and the Spielwarenmesse eG’s World of Toys Pavilion which will host various European exhibitors. The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association (HKBTA) Pavilion once again promotes the local creative industry and trendy toy products to international buyers.

The Smart Tech Toys & Games zone will feature tech products operated by applications, incorporating virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR) and other technologies. Kidult World will showcase toys specifically designed for adults with a childlike spirit, such as collectibles, magic props, models, and puppets.

Record number of exhibitors at Baby Products Fair
With more than 660 exhibitors, this year’s Hong Kong Baby Products Fair boasts the most exhibitors ever. The popular ODM Strollers and Gear zone continues for the second consecutive year, featuring over 80 exhibitors, making it easier than ever for buyers to source products from original design manufacturers. The Selection of Europe pavilion returns and will feature, for the first time, the UK’s Baby Products Industry Association putting a spotlight on quality European baby brands and products. This year sees the return of several popular pavilions, such as the well-known Korean and Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association pavilions. Making their debut this year is the Zhejiang Zhili pavilion which will present an array of high-quality infant and children’s clothing.

The Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair continue to feature the popular Brand Name Gallery, bringing together over 380 well-known brands from around the globe, allowing buyers to source the latest designs and high-quality products from a variety of brands.

Jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair will feature the latest school and office supplies, creative art supplies and gift stationery. The organisers continue to cooperate with renowned industry associations in different regions, including China Stationery & Sporting Goods Association, Malaysia Stationery Importers and Exporters Association and The Federation of Stationers and Booksellers Association of Malaysia.

Asian Toys & Games Forum and various seminars help the industry seize opportunities
Helping buyers and sellers broaden their business networks and learn about the most recent market trends, there are a number of networking events, buyer forums, product demo and launch pad, and seminars throughout the fair period.

On the second day of the fair, the Asian Toys & Games Forum will be held. Themed Beyond Fun and Play: Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry, international toy and game industry experts will discuss the role of toys and games in therapy, healthcare and wellness, and their impact on socialisation and active ageing. Other seminars will cover popular topics such as toy safety regulations, toy sustainability, and gender-based perspectives and inclusivity in the toy market.

The three exhibitions offer buyers a one-stop sourcing platform, creating more cross-industry business opportunities. Under the EXHIBITION+ model, the fairs integrate physical exhibition and the Click2Match smart business matching platform for online business meetings. The online exhibition will be early accessible from 30 December 2024 until 16 January 2025, to sustain and create greater business opportunities for the industry. Buyers can also scan QR codes at exhibitor booths using the Scan2Match service to bookmark their favourite exhibitors, browse product information and engage with exhibitors even after the fair to make for more business connections.

Photo Download:https://bit.ly/4fLhGt0

image
image

Fair Websites
HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: hktoyfair.hktdc.com
HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: hkbabyfair.hktdc.com
Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: hkstationeryfair.com

Register for free entry pass: https://tinyurl.com/eb3w32p8

Media enquires
Please contact HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department:

Sharon HaTel:2584 4575Email:sharon.mt.ha@hktdc.org
Jane CheungTel:2584 4137       Email:jane.mh.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 51 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.

‘Think Business, Think Hong Kong’ is coming to Jakarta

  • Mega promotion to spotlight benefits of partnering with Hong Kong to tap Asia opportunities

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is set to conduct its mega promotion campaign, Think Business, Think Hong Kong (TBTHK), in Jakarta on 8 January.

The full-day symposium, set to take place at Shangri-La Jakarta, will bring together business leaders from Hong Kong and Indonesia. More than 20 government representatives and business leaders will speak about the latest developments and opportunities in Asia and across diverse sectors, including finance, smart city, sustainability, transportation, innovation and technology (I&T) and more. Over 1,000 participants, including Indonesian government officials and business leaders from large corporations and SMEs, are expected.

TBTHK aims to showcase Hong Kong, a resilient business and investment hub, as an ideal springboard for Indonesian businesses to access new opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), as well as the wider China and Asia markets. 

Ronald Ho, HKTDC’s Regional Director of Southeast Asia and South Asia, said at a press conference in Jakarta, “Hong Kong’s strategic location as an international financial, fundraising and investment hub and as the gateway between Mainland China and the rest of the world presents immense opportunities for Indonesian businesses seeking to expand in the GBA and Mainland China. We look forward to connecting businesses with opportunities at TBTHK in Jakarta on 8 January.” He continued, “the Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive led a delegation organised by the HKTDC last year to ASEAN, including Indonesia, which resulted in the signing of 15 MoUs. The TBTHK promotion will build on that previous success to further promote business cooperation between Indonesia and Hong Kong.”

Event Highlight
In addition to the symposium, some 20 Hong Kong service providers and start-ups will feature their flagship products and solutions in the exhibition’s Business Support Zone and InnoVenture Salon to create opportunities for collaboration with Indonesian participants.

A delegation of some 100 senior executives, innovators, start-ups and professional service providers from various service sectors – including I&T, infrastructure and transportation – will explore business opportunities in Indonesia through company visits, networking events and business matching meetings.

A high-level gala dinner, during which Hong Kong and Indonesia business leaders will have the opportunity to further engage in dialogue and network, concludes the day’s events.

Indonesia-Hong Kong strong ties
As the largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is an important partner for Hong Kong. Economically, Hong Kong and Indonesia have seen their trade and investment ties deepen over the past decades. In 2023, Indonesia was Hong Kong’s 6th largest trading partner among ASEAN member states.

Regarding bilateral investment, at the end of 2023, Hong Kong was Indonesia’s 6th largest investor, after Singapore, Japan, the US, the Netherlands and Mainland China, with a total FDI stock of US$17,253 million. In the same year, Hong Kong was Indonesia’s 2nd largest source of FDI, after Singapore, with a FDI flow of US$3,769 million.

Presenting Hong Kong as an Ideal Business Partner
Hong Kong has consistently ranked high on economic freedom and competitiveness. Its institutional strengths, including its free trade and investment regimes, a simple and low tax system and free flow of capital and goods offer a favourable business and investment environment.

As a major business and trading hub in Asia, the city boasts excellent connectivity to the rest of Asia, with half of the world’s population within a five-hour flight. The new three-runway system at Hong Kong International Airport will significantly enhance passenger and cargo capacity, further solidifying its status as an international aviation hub. With Mainland China at its doorstep, Hong Kong serves as a gateway to this vast market, acting as a super connector between China and the world. Home to numerous international logistics firms and experienced supply chain service providers, Hong Kong can address the needs of ASEAN businesses.

ASEAN countries can leverage Hong Kong’s status as a premier international finance and business centre to raise funds and attract investment for developing smart cities, advancing the manufacturing sector and enhancing sustainability initiatives. As the largest offshore RMB market, the city provides robust infrastructure for efficient clearing and settlement of cross-border transactions. Its supportive regulatory environment fosters innovation and collaboration among ASEAN nations, promoting economic integration and offering diverse options for trade settlement. Through strategic partnerships with central banks, Hong Kong is ideally positioned to facilitate the growth of local currency usage, strengthening trade and investment across the region.

With its strategic location as a finance, fundraising, and investment hub, combined with its role as superconnector, Hong Kong presents immense opportunities for Indonesian businesses seeking to expand into the GBA, Mainland China, Belt and Road countries and the wider Asia market.

For more information, visit:
https://thinkbusinessthinkhk.com/2025-jakarta/symposium/en/index.html

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

image
image

Media enquiries
Advo Public Relations
Friska Rani      Tel: 081298980400            mail: friska@advo-indonesia.com

HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department:
Snowy Chan       Tel.: (852) 2584 4525        Email: snowy.sn.chan@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 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.