17 3 月, 2022

HKTDC Export Index 1Q22: Export confidence continues to shrink

HONG KONG, Mar 17, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The HKTDC Export Index fell by 12.5 points to 24.7 in the first quarter of this year, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) announced today. "The index shrinking for the third consecutive quarter can be taken as a clear indication that the prospects for short-term export growth are expected to weaken further," said HKTDC Director of Research Irina Fan.Hong Kong Trade Development Council Director of Research Irina Fan (L) and Economist Samantha Yim announced the HKTDC Export Index for the first quarter of 2022 at a press conference today (17 March)However, the Trade Value Index painted a more optimistic picture, as it remained in expansionary territory at 52.8, despite its reading having dropped from 57.0 in the previous quarter. "This robust outcome indicates that unit prices in most sectors will continue to rise in the near term, with the toy and electronics sectors leading the way at 56.7 and 53.5 respectively," said Ms Fan.The survey found that, unsurprisingly, a majority (93.1%) of respondents indicated that their businesses had been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic over the past three months, a rise of 6.1 percentage points on the previous quarter. Among the key negative impacts cited were rising transportation costs (75.7%), ongoing disruptions to logistics and distribution arrangements (64.5%) and shortages in raw materials, parts and components (46.5%)."In light of rising costs, the pricing response from companies has been notably mixed. While 46.8% of respondents indicated they had been able to pass on at least some of their increased costs to buyers, 48.1% maintained this had not been an option. In addition, about one third (34.2%) of respondents expected their profit margins to rise or stay at the same level, while 65.8% predicted their profits margins would fall year-on-year over the course of the next 12 months," she added.Exporters across sectors remain cautiousThe HKTDC conducts the Export Index survey every quarter, interviewing 500 local exporters from six major industries including machinery, electronics, jewellery, watches and clocks, toys and clothing, to gauge business confidence in near-term export prospects. The Index indicates an optimistic or pessimistic outlook, with 50 as the dividing line.The Export Index dropped by 12.5 points to 24.7 for the third consecutive quarter. HKTDC Economist Samantha Yim said: "In line with this, exporter confidence continues to plunge across almost all industry sectors and major markets. Across many of the major sectors, exporters remained notably cautious. This saw timepieces emerge as the least positive sector at 19.7, while machinery recorded the largest drop, falling 19.1 points to 25.0. By contrast, the toy sector was the only one to merit an increased read, up 8.5 points to 33.5."Exporters were similarly pessimistic when it came to the near-term prospect of Hong Kong's major markets, with all the associated sub-indexes declining. Overall, Asia continued to be seen as likely to be the best performer over the coming months, with the best performer being Japan at 45.6, followed by Mainland China (42.1). On the other hand, the US dropped 3.8 points to 39.1, an outcome seen as less than promising.Challenges and strategies in 2022Looking ahead, an increased number of respondents were concerned about the impact of COVID-19 (53.5%) - a significant climb from the 32.5% of respondents reporting the same sentiment in the previous quarter. A further 11.4% indicated that prospects of a stuttering economic recovery remained among their key challenges, while 9.3% worried about the continued closure of borders.In terms of business strategies for the year, 38.5% of respondents favoured developing other product lines, followed by diversifying into new overseas markets (29.9%) and developing online sales or sourcing channels (29.4%).In December 2021, the HKTDC forecasted that Hong Kong exports will grow by 8% in value in 2022.References- HKTDC Research website: http://research.hktdc.com/- HKTDC Export Index 1Q22: Erratic Market Environment Dampening Exporter Confidence Further: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MTAwNjA1OTIxNg- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3tXw4ZqMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC's Communication and Public Affairs Department:Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.orgMedia Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.comAbout HKTDCThe 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

16 12 月, 2021

HKTDC Export Index 4Q21: Hong Kong export growth set to slow to 8% in 2022

HONG KONG, Dec 16, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) forecasts that Hong Kong exports will grow by 8% in value in 2022, down from the 25% expansion experienced in 2021. An uneven recovery, lingering threats from the COVID-19 pandemic, global supply chain disruptions and logistics bottlenecks, as well as rising concerns over inflation, are expected to restrain growth, HKTDC Director of Research Nicholas Kwan said.HKTDC Director of Research Nicholas Kwan and Assistant Principal Economist (Greater China) Alice Tsang announced the HKTDC Export Index for the fourth quarter of 2021 and gave the HKTDC’s prediction for export growth in 2022 at a press conference today.In the most recent HKTDC Export Index survey, more local exporters (87%, up 20.4 percentage points from the previous quarter) said the pandemic had negatively affected their business. Soaring transport costs (60.2%), disruptions to logistics and distribution (53.2%) as well as difficulties in sourcing raw materials/parts and components (41.4%, up 16.8 percentage points) were cited as major impacts. More than 70% of Hong Kong exporters said they expect 2022 sales will decrease (42.6%) or just be on par (29.1%) with sales this year.COVID-19 remains biggest threatIn the first 10 months of 2021, Hong Kong exports surged 26.7% year-on-year, albeit from a low base. "The remarkable growth outshone the global average, demonstrating the resilience of the city's export sector. Nonetheless, lingering pandemic and market uncertainties are likely to cast a shadow on the local export performance in the coming year," Mr Kwan said.He added that the impact of COVID-19 (32.5%) remains local exporters' top concern, followed by a stuttering economic recovery (15.7%) and borders remaining closed (11.6%).From 'just-in-time' to 'just-in-case'Mr Kwan said COVID-19-related delays in shipments and issues related to port closures and congestion have adversely impacted the global supply chains in many areas. While 71.3% of respondents reported delivery delays, 39.8% experienced production schedule disruption and 38.4% passed extra shipping costs on to customers. Many exporters (62.4%) expect logistics costs to continue rising in the first quarter of 2022, with 39.8% anticipating an increase in the range of 10-30%.He said manufacturers may reserve more buffer time for production in the pandemic recovery period. "Take the automobile industry as an example, where companies are switching from a 'just-in-time' strategy, with semiconductor chips, parts and components only delivered as needed, to embracing a 'just-in-case' strategy where they stock up on inventory to combat logistics bottlenecks."New products, new marketsOn the bright side, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement takes effect on 1 January 2022. "With its phased tariff elimination, the RCEP is set to further develop and integrate regional supply chains, as well as encourage production specialisation in Asia. This will provide a fresh impetus for Hong Kong to fortify its role as an international trading hub," Mr Kwan said.Considering business strategies in 2022, almost half of the exporters surveyed (46.4%) indicated they planned to develop other product categories, with some opting to develop domestic markets in Mainland China (33.8%) or diversify sales to other overseas markets (30.5%).Toy sector bearishMeanwhile, the HKTDC Export Index dropped 1.8 points to 37.2 in the final quarter of 2021, "indicating that growing market uncertainties triggered by COVID-19 variants may continue to undermine local exporters' confidence in the near term," said HKTDC Assistant Principal Economist (Greater China) Alice Tsang.Machinery (44.1, up 0.3 points) was the most promising sector, jewellery (40.7. up 0.8) and clothing (39.6, up 3.5) improved, while toys, down 19.0 points to 25.0, was the least optimistic sector. Exporters were equally cautious on major markets. Mild growth was expected in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc (45.8, up 1.3) and Japan (48.7, up 0.8), while the mainland market remained stable (47.6, down 0.2) and the United States fell 1.4 points to 42.9.The Procurement Index and the Employment Index were more or less the same as the previous quarter, at 36.9 and 44.0 respectively. The Trade Value Index (57.0) remained in expansionary territory.A total of 500 local traders from six major industry sectors including clothing, electronics, jewellery, machinery, timepieces and toys were interviewed for the HKTDC Export Index survey in mid-November. Readings above 50 indicate a positive sentiment, while below 50 is negative.References- HKTDC Research website: http://research.hktdc.com/- HKTDC Export Index 4Q21: Exporter Sentiment Declines as Covid-19 Resurges and Logistics Costs Spiral https://bit.ly/3yC337H- Hong Kong Export Outlook for 2022: Moderate Growth Amid Lingering Risks from Covid-19 and Growing Threats of Inflation https://bit.ly/3EWwN1b- Podcast https://bit.ly/3pXDPfJ- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3pWHKJQAbout HKTDCThe 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communication and Public Affairs DepartmentBeatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

1 11 月, 2021

Seven concurrent trade fairs close, attracting 16,000+ onsite buyers

“Physical + online” format creates new business opportunities HONG KONG, Oct 30, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) brought its seven autumn trade fairs* together onto a single “physical + online” platform in 2021. The physical fairs ended today, attracting more than 16,000 industry buyers to visit in person and conduct business discussions, while the online fairs run until 6 November. To date, more than 3,000 meetings have been arranged while close to 12,000 buyers browsed products and conducted business discussions online. The HKTDC has brought its seven autumn trade fairs together into a single “physical + online” platform. The physical session was successfully concluded today and attracted more than 16,000 buyers, while the online fairs run until 6 November. Eco Expo Asia opened its doors to the public on Public Day today (30 October), with visitors able to participate in a range of themed green workshops and talks as well as purchase environmentally friendly products at the Green Mart. On 29 October 2021, the Environment Bureau of the HKSAR Government held the “Carbon Neutrality Partnership Launching Ceremony” during the Eco Expo Asia. Featuring more than 1,700 exhibitors from 18 countries and regions, the hybrid fairs present a comprehensive range of the latest technologies. HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said this year’s policy address outlined steps to build Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology centre, underlining the huge potential for companies in the innovation and technology industry. The seven fairs ran in a hybrid format to allow global buyers and exhibitors to connect and conduct business matching both online and offline, creating more business opportunities. Positive sales outlook The HKTDC conducted an on-site survey during the fairs. Among more than 450 exhibitors and buyers interviewed, more than half (55%) expected overall sales to increase next year, while 30% expected sales to remain steady. In terms of market potential, respondents were most optimistic about Taiwan (78%) and South Korea (63%) among traditional markets, and Mainland China (76%), India (72%) and Eastern Europe (72%) among emerging markets. The COVID-19 pandemic affected exhibitors and buyers in different ways, including a drop in sales and revenue (64%), rising logistics costs (23%) and rising sourcing/production costs (19%). With just two months remaining until the new year, 44% of respondents believed fluctuations in the global economy will be the major challenge to their businesses in 2022, followed by an increase in operating costs (32%) and changing political developments (29%). Asked about opportunities, 37% of respondents expected that business leads driven from e-tailing would have the most impact, followed by recovering customer purchasing power (36%) and rising demand from emerging markets (34%). Seven fairs present latest technology The seven trade shows took on a vibrant atmosphere, presenting a one-stop shop for electronic technologies, smart city solutions, lighting solutions, medical and environmental protection technologies, services and information. At the HKTDC Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo, Innobuild exhibitor BeeInventor displayed a smart helmet which deploys Internet of Things (IoT) technology to improve construction-site management. Commercial manager Simon Yau said the company targets Hong Kong customers and had met 40 potential buyers in the first two days, including those from construction companies and government departments. The company expects 30% of these prospects to become new customers, far exceeding expectations. HKTDC International ICT Expo exhibitor Dayta AI Limited showed cloud solutions that analyse customer traffic patterns at offline retailers. Dayta’s Head of Business Development Jack Ling said the company had negotiated with 30 potential partners at the expo and closed a deal with a fashion retailer. Other buyers include non-government organisations and retailers in the IT sector. He expects more deals to be made after the event. Eco Expo Asia promotes green recovery for carbon neutrality The Environment Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region earlier this month released Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050. The plan outlines the four major decarbonisation strategies and measures – net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction – that will lead Hong Kong towards carbon neutrality. Themed “Promoting Green Recovery for Carbon Neutrality”, this year’s Eco Expo Asia brought together companies offering environmental protection products, solutions, equipment and technology in different categories, including Green Building & Energy Efficiency, Green Transportation and Waste Treatment & Recycling. A buyer at the expo, Max Tsang, Director of GreenCo ESG Advisory Limited, said he was looking for the latest eco-friendly solutions and products for clients and was helped by the HKTDC’s business matching service, which assisted them in screening suitable suppliers and successfully identify three potential providers of waste management equipment and food waste decomposers. Mr Tsang said Eco Expo Asia provided an ideal platform for him to learn the latest environmental protection trends, adding that he would like to participate again next year. Online fairs create new business opportunities At the online fairs, which run until 6 November, the HKTDC is continuing to mobilise its network of 50 offices worldwide to invite overseas buyers to conduct discussions with exhibitors via video conferencing. The online fairs are once again featuring Click2Match, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered online business matching platform launched by the HKTDC last year, to bring exhibitors together with potential buyers. Buyers and exhibitors can also take advantage of functions such as a meeting planner, live chat, video meetings and e-business card exchange, helping to facilitate their online business. AT-Vibe Technology Ltd, which participated in both the physical and online formats of the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) for the first time, demonstrated its latest IoT solutions. Product manager Wilson Chan was very satisfied with the response at the fair. “We are negotiating orders with potential buyers from several IT companies and a bank that we met at the physical exhibition,” Mr Chan said. “The HKTDC has also lined up virtual meetings for us to meet with overseas buyers on its AI-powered Click2Match platform to further explore overseas business opportunities.” * The seven autumn trade fairs include the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC International ICT Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo, electronicAsia, which is jointly organised by the HKTDC and MMI Asia Pte Ltd, and Eco Expo Asia, which is jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. Seven autumn trade fairs websites– Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hkelectronicsfairae.hktdc.com– electronicAsia: www.electronicasia.com– International ICT Expo: https://ictexpo.hktdc.com– Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hklightingfairae.hktdc.com– Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo: https://hkotlexpo.hktdc.com– Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://hkmedicalfair.hktdc.com– Eco Expo Asia: www.ecoexpoasia.com Photo download: https://bit.ly/2Y4auGQHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn Media enquiries:HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgJanet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgAgnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

29 10 月, 2021

Hong Kong Electronics Fair: I&T to lead post-pandemic economic growth

HONG KONG, Oct 29, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - With the post-pandemic new normal taking root across the world, enterprises large and small are bracing for the challenges to come. At the Symposium on Innovation and Technology, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association (HKETA) invited industry luminaries from around the world to share insights on the theme "Revive and Thrive". The speakers shed light on how innovation and technology (I&T) can help enterprises regain growth momentum and what I&T trends they expect to see globally and in Hong Kong.This year's Symposium on Innovation & Technology, themed "Revive and Thrive", ran as part of the Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition).I&T to lead the worldVictor Choi, Chairman of the HKETA, noted in his welcome remarks that the Symposium on Innovation and Technology has long been a flagship event of the annual Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition). He said: "This year, the event is being held in both physical and online formats for the first time, enabling speakers and audiences from all over the world to overcome physical limitations to connect and explore the role of I&T in the post-pandemic era."In his opening remarks, Alfred Sit, Secretary for Innovation and Technology of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said that artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are important technology areas underpinning smart city development. Their applications are conducive to the delivery of quality data-driven public services. As the International ICT Expo resumes as an in-person exhibition for the first time since COVID-19, the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) is using the event to help different sectors gain a better understanding of the HKSAR Government's initiatives in promoting smart city development and to act as a bridge to boost collaboration between the government and industry to explore insightful ideas for smart city development in Hong Kong.Metaverse will become the next big thingMarcos Chow, Partner & Head of Technology Enablement at KPMG China, shared the findings of a KPMG report on the outlook among CEOs. He said that when KPMG surveyed CEOs in 2020, the respondents named talent, supply chain and return to territorialism as the three greatest threats to business growth. However, when they conducted the survey again in 2021, the business chiefs ranked cybersecurity, environmental/climate change risk and supply chain as the greatest threats, reflecting their increased concern regarding technology's impact on business. The report also found that the CEOs preferred using mergers and acquisitions to quickly acquire technology capabilities and capitalise on growth opportunities.Mr Chow observed that enterprises globally are increasing their ESG (environmental, social and governance) investments and that governments are beginning to impose stricter regulations related to sustainability. For this reason, global enterprises should leverage I&T to achieve sustainability goals such as carbon neutrality. This makes ESG a space where unicorns will find ample growth potential.As for upcoming trends, Mr Chow foresees that global tech companies will trend towards developing metaverses - hybrid virtual-physical reality spaces that can generate greater application opportunities for I&T solutions. As an example, he said that Token.com, a technology company, recently acquired a 50% stake in a virtual real estate investment trust and that the transaction was conducted with cryptocurrencies. At the recent Digital Art Fair in Hong Kong, artworks were auctioned using non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as the currency. Mr Chow added that as more metaverses are developed, the risk of cybersecurity will also increase, which in turn will prompt governments to increase their oversight.FinTech's need for integrationLucas Hui, Chief Technology Officer of the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), said that most FinTechs nowadays incorporate multiple application technologies, including AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and data analytics. In conjunction with the prevalence of the high-speed, high-efficiency and reliable connectivity of 5G, or even 6G, this will boost the development of integrated blockchains.He explained: "Many FinTech businesses now depend on AI, which raises data security risks and requires the use of authentication technologies and data analytics to mitigate. As transaction volumes increase, so will the workload. Yet, all of this can be performed effectively on integrated blockchains."Using e-wallets as an example, Hui said that, while 5G's high-speed data transfer can facilitate high-volume online transactions, authenticating these transactions will require the concerted use of such technologies as AI, big data analytics and machine learning. To this end, he foresees that future FinTechs will rely on integrated blockchains to perform these operations.The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has brought its seven autumn trade fairs* together into a single "physical + online" platform in 2021. Featuring more than 1,700 exhibitors from 18 countries and regions, the hybrid fairs present a comprehensive range of cutting-edge tech products, solutions, medical and environmental technologies, services and intelligence. The four-day physical fairs are held from 27 to 30 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), while the online fairs run until 6 November.* The seven concurrent fairs include the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC International ICT Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo, electronicAsia, which is jointly organised by the HKTDC and MMI Asia Pte Ltd, and Eco Expo Asia, which is jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.Websites of the seven autumn trade fairs- Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hkelectronicsfairae.hktdc.com- electronicAsia: www.electronicasia.com- International ICT Expo: https://ictexpo.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hklightingfairae.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo: https://hkotlexpo.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://hkmedicalfair.hktdc.com- Eco Expo Asia: www.ecoexpoasia.comPhoto download: https://bit.ly/3GtTWcpHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgJanet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgAgnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

28 10 月, 2021

Seven autumn trade fairs open today

HONG KONG, Oct 27, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - As a fast-developing international hub for innovation and technology, Hong Kong's innovation and technology-related industries have huge potential. Continuing its commitment to helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) capture these new opportunities, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has brought its seven autumn trade fairs* together into a single "physical + online" platform in 2021. Featuring more than 1,700 exhibitors from 18 countries and regions, the hybrid fairs present a comprehensive range of cutting-edge tech products, solutions, medical and environmental technologies, services and intelligence. The four-day physical fairs are held from today until Saturday (27 to 30 October) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), while the online fairs run until 6 November.The seven fairs have gathered more than 1,700 exhibitors from 18 countries and regions, showcasing the latest cutting-edge tech products, solutions, services and intelligence to create cross-sector opportunities for local companies amid the pandemicThe Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia spotlight a host of smart home appliances, electronic gadgets and accessories, anti-pandemic products, AIoT and wearables, as well as components and production technologiesThe Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) has set up the Smart Government Pavilion at the International ICT Expo to highlight various cutting-edge developmentsWide range of cutting-edge technologies on displayThe seven trade fairs* create diverse cross-sector business opportunities for SMEs in Hong Kong. The HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia (jointly organised with MMI Asia Pte Ltd) present a host of the latest cutting-edge technology products, including smart home appliances, electronic gadgets and accessories, anti-pandemic products, artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) and wearables, as well as electronic components and production technologies. Featured products include inventions developed by local start-ups such as a hydroponic smart grower (booth 1E-C30), A.I. O2O servicing robot (booth 1E-C23) and automated guided robot (booth 1E-C28). The Hong Kong Electronics and Technologies Association and IOT HK Association have organised group pavilions to present various innovations and technologies.The HKTDC International ICT Expo spotlights smart city solutions and ICT technologies across all sectors, including the Smart Government Pavilion (booth 1E-A02) and HKICT Awards Pavilion (booth 1D-E20) set up by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO). Under the theme of "Robotics Technologies", this year's Smart Government Pavilion showcases more than 20 technology solutions that facilitate smart city development and enhance public services, covering various major areas such as "Smart Mobility", "Smart Living", "Smart Environment", "Smart People" and "Smart Government". The OGCIO is showcasing a number of robotics technologies adopted by different government departments, such as the Guiding Robot used by the OGCIO, the Disinfection Robot used by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, the Deliverbot used by InvestHK, the Intelligent Robotic Monitoring System used by the Correctional Services Department, and the Robotic Dog for Landslide Inspection used by the Civil Engineering and Development Department. The OGCIO aims to help different sectors gain a better understanding of how government departments are enhancing work safety and efficiency through the application of robotics technologies.Other highlighted exhibitors and pavilions include Autotoll, HKBN Enterprise Solutions, Cyberport, The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Smart City Consortium, Hong Kong Public Key Infrastructure Forum and B4B Challenge. Several local research and development centres, including the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) and Automotive Platforms and Applications Systems (APAS) R&D Centre are also showcasing their latest projects. It is believed that fostering such technologies can further promote Hong Kong's status as an innovation and technology hub.The HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair brings together the most updated medical supplies, equipment and technologies. The fair features various thematic zones including the debut Epidemic Prevention & Control zone along with Biotechnology, World of Health & Wellness, Rehabilitation & Elderly Care, Hospital Equipment and the Startup zone, as well as a group pavilion organised by the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association (HKMHDIA). Highlighted products include the self-developed video consultation app DoctorNow (booth 1C-F20), the HPV/STD DNA "pad-type" self-sampling kit (booth 1C-F37), an electronic stethoscope (booth 1C-D18) and a flexible robotic endoscopic system (booth 1C-C10).The HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition) and HKTDC Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo display different smart and eco-friendly lighting products, such as the Qivation Lighting-Q Colour light bulb (booth 1D-B200) and the electronic UV lamp ballast for germicidal lamps (online fair). This year's Outdoor and Tech Light Expo features the Innobuild zone to showcase construction-related technologies and products. One of the Innobuild exhibitors displays a smart helmet (booth 1D-A06) that incorporates functions such as health monitoring, safety alerts, real-time positioning and communication.The 16th edition of Eco Expo Asia, organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and co-organised by the Environmental Bureau of the HKSAR Government, presents a wide range of green products and solutions. The highlighted zones at the expo include Green Transportation, Waste Management & Recycling and Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency. A wide variety of electric vehicles and related charging equipment, the latest recycling technologies and energy-saving solutions for companies will be featured at the fair.A series of forums and seminars will be conducted during the fairs, sharing the latest technology trends with industry players. Highlights are as follows:Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), electronicAsiaSymposium on Innovation & Technology (27 October)Co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association, the symposium is held today with livestreaming available online. Under the theme "REVIVE & THRIVE", international industry representatives and academics examine the latest market trends and the development of technologies ranging from 6G technology to artificial intelligence and space technology. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3v1YVMsHong Kong Electronic Forum (28 October)Co-organised by the HKTDC, MMI Asia Pte Ltd and The Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association, the forum will discuss the effective use of third-generation semiconductors. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3lZDSqHStartup. Smart Launch (28 and 29 October)To enable start-ups to promote innovative ideas and explore commercialisation opportunities for their smart products, a series of "Startup Smart Launch" product demo sessions are being organised.International ICT ExpoCapturing Smart City Project Opportunities in ASEAN (28 October)Industry representatives and economic analysts are invited to share their insights into smart city development and blockchain traceability and transparency in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/2YXjxJA"Meet the Giants": Emerging Trends of Smart Mobility and Transport Systems (28 October)This seminar will share the latest developments in smart city technologies and green transportation systems. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3nr6UzeHow Can Decentralised Data Management Technology be Used for Local Business and Global Expansion? (28 October)Co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong PKI Forum, invited experts will share information on the latest applications and user experiences among local firms. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3n5U09oUnleash the Potential of Next-Generation Smart City Solutions (29 October)Co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, this seminar will include discussions about transportation, artificial intelligence development and the application of blockchain. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3BT5zqHHong Kong International Medical and Healthcare FairA series of exhibitors' forums are arranged on 27 October to introduce a range of featured medical and nursing products as well as the most up-to-date medical know-how. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3C1DnCbHong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition),Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light ExpoA seminar themed "Illuminating the Connected Future" will be held on 28 October. Representatives from the lighting and construction industries will exchange insights on the latest trends and developments in different sectors ranging from retail lighting design to smart lighting and building networking technology. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3DU5F1MEco Expo AsiaEco Asia Conference (27 and 28 October)Sessions will be held under four main themes: "Advancing Net Zero", "Promoting Green Recovery for Carbon Neutrality", "Towards Material Circularity in Hong Kong" and "Green and Sustainable Finance for Eco Business". The conference will address key environmental issues and offer insights on industry trends. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3jkPu66Public Day Green Talks (30 October)Under three main themes - "Climate Change: Could Hong Kong be Spared?", "Let's Save 10L Water 2.0 Campaign" and "Holistic Green Journey Experience: Urban Farming & Eco-friendly Hotel" - speakers will share their knowledge with the public to raise their awareness on environmental issues. For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3vsyTlyPublic Day Workshop (30 October)There will be workshops under two interesting themes: "Green Magic - Succulents Zoo" and "Effects of Oil Spillages on Sea Birds and Clean Up Experiments". For details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3vsyTlyFor the online fairs, the HKTDC will continue to mobilise its network of 50 offices worldwide to invite overseas buyers to conduct business discussions with exhibitors via video conferencing. The online fairs will once again feature Click2Match, an artificial intelligence-powered online business matching platform launched by the HKTDC last year, to bring exhibitors together with potential buyers. Buyers and exhibitors can also take advantage of functions such as a meeting planner, live chat, video meetings and e-business card exchange, facilitating them to do business online.Ensuring safety for an enjoyable visitThe well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors is the top priority at the physical exhibitions. Various measures have been put in place to protect participants against the pandemic, including requiring everyone in the fairground to wear a mask; prohibiting eating and drinking in the fairground; setting up temperature-screening stations; providing hand sanitiser at multiple locations around the venue; and stepping up the cleaning and disinfection of exhibitors' booths and the venue itself. For more details, please visit: https://bit.ly/3vm7yRR* The seven concurrent fairs include the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC International ICT Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo, electronicAsia, which is jointly organised by the HKTDC and MMI Asia Pte Ltd, and Eco Expo Asia, which is jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.Seven autumn trade fairs websites- Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hkelectronicsfairae.hktdc.com- electronicAsia: www.electronicasia.com- International ICT Expo: https://ictexpo.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hklightingfairae.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo: https://hkotlexpo.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://hkmedicalfair.hktdc.com- Eco Expo Asia: www.ecoexpoasia.comPhoto download: https://bit.ly/3ElJzWwHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgJanet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgAgnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

21 10 月, 2021

Eco Expo Asia opens on 27 October featuring latest green tech and products

HONG KONG, Oct 21, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, and co-organised by the Environment Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, the 16th edition of Eco Expo Asia will be held as a hybrid event, with physical and online exhibitions, for the first time. The physical exhibition will be held from 27 to 30 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), while the online show will run from 27 October to 6 November.Benjamin Chau (L), HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, shared the highlights of this year's Eco Expo Asia, while Owin Fung, Deputy Director of Environmental Protection Department, introduced the role and goals of the Department in co-organising the expo.Expanded polystyrene (EPS) recycling specialist WIT Holdings will showcase its patented technology, which rapidly degrades EPS foam and recycles it into polystyrene raw material, in the "Waste Treatment and Recycling" zone.The expo has added the "Green Finance and ESG-related services" element to provide green finance, sustainable development strategies, and environmental, social and governance (ESG) consulting services.This year's expo has attracted more than 180 exhibitors. In addition to local exhibitors, Austria, Mainland China, France, Switzerland and Taiwan are either appointing local representatives to join the physical event or participating in the online show, while Canada, Japan and Sweden will set up group participation. This diverse collection of exhibitors will showcase a wide array of the latest environmental technologies and products to create a one-stop environmental protection business platform."Even though the pandemic has had a big impact on global economic activities, the environmental protection and green industries are showing considerable potential and are set to play an important role in sustainable economic development. More and more companies have been actively expanding their commitment to sustainable operations and environmental protection during the pandemic," said HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau, speaking at a press conference held today to introduce highlights of the 2021 expo. "We hope the expo will continue to promote cooperation and exchange within the environmental protection sector and related industries to help companies grasp green business opportunities."Owin Fung, Deputy Director of Environmental Protection Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, also spoke at the press conference, saying that he hoped the expo could support Hong Kong's Climate Action Plan 2050, announced by the Environment Bureau earlier this month, which sets out the vision of "Zero-carbon Emissions . Liveable City . Sustainable Development". The expo could help catalyse cooperation and exchange between the government and industry players, promote the huge green business opportunities in Asia, drive green procurement by business, and promote environmental education and a low-carbon lifestyle to the public, leading Hong Kong towards carbon neutrality.HK Pavilion showcases waste-reduction, decarbonisation and energy-saving solutionsThe Hong Kong Pavilion continues to be a focal point at the expo, with the participation and support of the Environment Bureau and eight departments of the HKSAR Government, along with various industry associations and enterprises. A total of 38 exhibitors will showcase waste-reduction, decarbonisation and energy-saving products and technologies from Hong Kong, and the pavilion will also highlight relevant government environmental protection policies.Mr Chau said the green market in Hong Kong continues to develop. According to the HKSAR Government's Census and Statistics Department, the value added by Hong Kong's environmental industry rose from HK$7.9 billion in 2015 to HK$9.9 billion in 2019, representing a 25% increase over five years. Mainland China is also increasing its investment in the environmental industry with the 14th Five-Year Plan outlining the direction for energy saving. Last year, the mainland invested more than Rmb8.75 trillion in water conservation, environment and public facilities management, indicating the huge potential for environmental industries.Nine thematic zones address needs of multiple industriesThe theme of this year's expo is "Promoting Green Recovery for Carbon Neutrality". There are nine thematic zones, including "Green Transportation", "Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency", "Waste Treatment & Recycling" and "Eco-friendly Products". A new element, "Green Finance and ESG-related (Environmental, Social and Governance) Services", has been added while the "Startup" zone has once again attracted some of Hong Kong's innovative new companies to participate in the exhibition.At the beginning of this year, the HKSAR Government announced the Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles with a target to cease new registration of fuel-propelled private cars by 2035 or earlier. With electric vehicles now a fast-growing trend globally, the "Green Transportation" zone will display a variety of electric vehicles and related charging equipment, including electric scooters presented by Hong Kong Juhui Trading that are suitable for the express delivery of parcels and takeaway food. In addition, Cornerstone EV Charging Service will display electric vehicle charging equipment that optimises the power supply through a power load management system, bringing greater convenience for car park operators and users.The "Waste Treatment and Recycling" zone has attracted numerous international and local large-scale environmental protection facility contractors to participate, with many first-time exhibitors showcasing innovative new technologies. Among them, WIT Holdings, which specialises in expanded polystyrene (EPS) recycling, will display its patented technology that rapidly degrades EPS foam and recycles it into polystyrene raw material. It can process more than 50 kilograms of EPS in just one hour.Eco Asia Conference explores four major green issuesA key annual event at the expo, this year's Eco Asia Conference will be held on 27 and 28 October with industry leaders from around the world invited to share insights on a range of topics. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China will elaborate on the policies and developments that can help achieve carbon neutrality in the mainland, while the Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangdong Province, the Ecology Environment Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality and the Environmental Protection Bureau of the Macao SAR Government will jointly discuss solid waste policies and management in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. In addition, experts from the United Kingdom and Austria will share their experiences on the implementation of "advancing net zero" in local buildings, while a representative from the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao will share their experience in moving to a local circular economy.The importance of green finance has seen a sharp increase in recent years. The conference has invited senior representatives from the Securities and Futures Commission, the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and the Hong Kong Green Finance Association to discuss how green finance can promote the development of the environmental protection industry. Environmental consultants and environmental project holders have also been invited to introduce green financial products, relevant certifications and practical suggestions for ESG reports.Green Mart and Green Workshops on Public DayEco Expo Asia will open its doors to the public for free on the last day of the event (30 October) to encourage citizens to participate in environmental protection and promote green living. The Hong Kong Observatory will run a talk explaining the impact of climate change while the Water Supplies Department will host a session on the "Let's Save 10L Water 2.0" Campaign. The public can also shop at the Green Mart and join Green Workshops where participants will learn how to make a variety of green products.In addition to the expo, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council is running six other trade exhibitions concurrently, including the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC International ICT Expo, electronicAsia, HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo and HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair. Running several major fairs in tandem will generate synergies and create more business opportunities for exhibitors.- Eco Expo Asia website: www.ecoexpoasia.com- Overview of selected environmentally friendly products: https://bit.ly/3neGssx- Photo download: https://bit.ly/2Z7cbDAAbout HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

12 9 月, 2021

HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE conclude successfully

HONG KONG, Sep 12, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The 40th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the ninth Salon de TE, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd and the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades and Industries Ltd, drew to a successful conclusion today. This year, the twin fairs at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre not only welcomed industry buyers but also opened their doors to the general public during the whole fair period for the first time. The five-day physical fairs attracted around 4,900 industry buyers and more than 23,600 public visitors to shop for timepieces.The physical elements of the 40th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and the ninth Salon de TE drew to a successful close today. World Brand Piazza presented 12 renowned international brands.Experts shared their insights into industry prospects, trends and watch investment at the Hong Kong International Watch Forum, Asian Watch Conference and "Global Luxury Watch Investment and Market Outlook in Mainland China" seminar.This year, online version of the watch fairs was launched for the first time and will run until 19 September. To date, more than 1,100 online business meetings have been arranged, enabling global watch and clock traders to engage in business discussions via video conferencing. As of 12 September, the online fairs had recorded more than 2,400 buyers browsing products and conducting business discussions online.Fairs help exhibitors promote their brands and develop retail businessBenjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: "The Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE returned as special editions this year to help generate business opportunities for industry players. Opening the five-day fairs to the public for the first time also provided an excellent opportunity for watch and clock traders to reach out to retail customers and boost the industry's retail businesses. According to our on-site survey, public visitors who were interviewed spent an average of HK$1,059 per person at the fairs."Many exhibitors agreed that the fairs had helped them tap into the retail market. Philip Lau, General Manager of Chit Tat Clock and Watch Company Limited, said he had met with five buyers from European and US buying offices in Hong Kong. His company offered wholesale prices to attract local consumers and received a better-than-expected response. "These consumers have high purchasing power and strong confidence in the quality of our watches. We estimate that our sales turnover at the fair will be around HK$200,000-300,000," Mr Lau said.Another exhibitor, Gary Ching, Co-founder of ANPASSA Watch Company, said that within just a few hours of the opening of the fairs, two watch retailers had expressed interest in ANPASSA's watches and started discussing cooperation. "We also attracted the attention of many local consumers. We expect our on-site sales to reach HK$500,000-600,000, which demonstrates that our watches have great potential in the local market."Online trading builds business opportunities; smart watches grow in popularityTo gauge various trends in the watch and clock industry in 2022, the HKTDC conducted an on-site survey during the fairs, interviewing more than 540 exhibitors and buyers. The survey showed that the majority of respondents considered the recovering purchasing power of customers (42%) and e-tailing (35%) as presenting the biggest opportunities for their businesses. Additionally, 41% of the exhibitors surveyed said they were already engaged in e-tailing, while 47% said they intend to develop an e-tailing business in the next two years to capture more orders.In addition, 50% of interviewed respondents were positive on the industry outlook and expected their overall sales to increase. In terms of different markets, 68% of respondents viewed the Mainland China market most favourably, followed by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region (49%) and India (46%).As for product trends, smart watches (50%) were expected to be the most popular watch category in 2022, followed by mechanical watches (16%), and digital analogue watches (12%).The fairs attracted smart watch manufacturers to source for parts and components. Ricky Tsang, Managing Director of Eternal Keen Investment Limited, said his company specialises in the production of smart wearables, including smart watches. "I have found three potential suppliers at the fair. The value of my annual purchases of parts and components is US$20 million, and I plan to purchase parts and components worth US$1 million from new suppliers I met at the fair," Mr Tsang said.Fair websites:- Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair: https://hkwatchfair.hktdc.com- Salon de TE: https://hkwatchfair.hktdc.com/te- Photo download: https://bit.ly/38Y9wO7Media enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentJanet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgAngel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4544, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn. Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

12 9 月, 2021

Hong Kong fosters stronger economic ties with Thailand

HONG KONG, Sep 11, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - With business travel continuing to be restricted due to the global pandemic, Hong Kong is exploring ways to foster stronger economic ties with its trading partners. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Thai Ministry of Commerce's Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) today ratified a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at CENTRESTAGE, Asia's premier fashion event organised by the HKTDC. The MOU, which renews one signed in 2018, aims to promote trade and business activities, enhance the exchange of trade-related information, and strengthen the economic partnership between Hong Kong and Thailand.The HKTDC, represented by Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau (R), and the Thai Ministry of Commerce's Department of International Trade Promotion, represented by Trade Commissioner and Consul Chanunpat Pisanapipong (L), ratified a renewed memorandum of understanding at CENTRESTAGE, Asia's premier fashion event organised by the HKTDC. The agreement was witnessed by Bernard Chan (centre), Convenor of the Executive Council, HKSAR, and Chairman of the Hong Kong - Thailand Business Council.A fashion parade showcasing the creativity of Thailand's home-grown designers and labels was held today at CENTRESTAGE.HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: "The HKTDC and DITP are pleased to cooperate in organising exchange, training and marketing activities such as trade fairs, seminars and forums to facilitate communication and cooperation between the business communities of Hong Kong and Thailand. Under the renewed MOU, small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in selected target industries of Hong Kong and Thailand will be encouraged to participate or feature in online platforms (www.thaitrade.com and www.hktdc.com), mobile applications and trade fairs of the DITP and HKTDC to promote their products and services to international markets."The target industries include decorative arts and crafts, houseware, furniture, toys, gems and jewellery, garment and fashion accessories, food and beverage, pet supplies, cosmetics and personal care, gifts and premium, stationery, spa products, medical devices and supplies, electronics and information communications technology, printing and packaging, as well as natural and organic products. Service industries such as healthcare, finance, infrastructure and real estate services, design and marketing, and film and animation are also covered.Mr Chau continued: "To help SMEs and start-ups capture the opportunities arising from the shift to online business, the two organisations will also enhance collaboration in the digital economy, such as in e-commerce promotions, webinars, virtual trade fairs and showcases, and online business matching activities, in order to provide enterprises with technology support and solutions to improve their capabilities. With the surge of online business activities under the pandemic, it is important for enterprises to make good use of technology to capture business opportunities.""To promote Thailand's exports during the pandemic, Mr Jurin Laksanawisit, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Ministry of Commerce, has progressive policies to enhance Thailand market access to the world. By providing multiple levels of SME training and new trade promotion techniques called "Mirror - Mirror" which enables Thai entrepreneurs to exhibit their products at international trade fairs without attending in person. We are very happy to strengthen our cooperation with the HKTDC. We also look forward to our businesses taking part in a wider scope of HKTDC activities", said Chanunpat Pisanapipong, Trade Commissioner and Consul of Thailand's DITP.Thailand is Hong Kong's 10th-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade totalling US$17.3 billion in 2020. Hong Kong exports to Thailand amounted to US$6.3 billion last year while the city imported US$11.1 billion worth of goods from the country.CENTRESTAGE (10-12 September), currently running at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), features more than 200 fashion brands from 24 countries and regions. The debut Thai Pavilion, organised by the DITP, showcases 17 Thai fashion brands that participate in a Thailand fashion start-up incubation project called QUARTED. The pavilion symbolises increased collaboration between the DITP and HKTDC in promoting Thai fashion brands in Hong Kong.Running concurrently with CENTRESTAGE, the HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE (8-12 September) are being held at the HKCEC.Photo download: https://bit.ly/3nmbobIMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentSnowy Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4537, Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.orgAgnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.orgAbout the HKTDCThe 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 SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn. Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

25 8 月, 2021

HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE open in September

HONG KONG, Aug 25, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The special edition of the 40th HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and ninth Salon de TE, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association and The Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades and Industries, return next month. The fairs will run in physical and online formats for the first time. The physical fairs run from 8 to 12 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), while the online version will run until 19 September, helping global watch traders to explore business opportunities through both physical and online formats. The five-day fairs at the HKCEC will be open to industry buyers and, for the first time, to the general public, offering local watch lovers the opportunity to shop for precious timepieces.Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, Philip Lau, Co-chairman, HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Organising Committee 2021 (L) and Daisy Mok, Co-chairman, HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Organising Committee 2021 (R)Models at the press conference showcase selected timepieces, including winning timepieces from the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design CompetitionThe results of the 38th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Design Competition were announced at the press conference. Gary Lau (Second from left), President of the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd, is pictured with winners in the Open Group.Exports recovery is seen with optimistic prospect of watch & clock industryThe Watch & Clock Fair has long been regarded as an effective business platform for manufacturers and buyers, while Salon de TE introduces some of the best-known branded watches. The fairs are bringing together over 150 exhibitors, showcasing a wide array of watches from high-end designs to trendy day-wear watches.Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "Hong Kong's total exports of watches and clocks were valued at HK$27.8 billion from January to June this year, representing a year-on-year growth of 45.4%. The export index for timepieces was 21.6 for the third quarter of 2020 but had rebounded to 44.6 for the second quarter of this year, indicating that watch exporters are now more optimistic about the industry outlook. This year's fairs will give exhibitors and buyers the chance to explore more business opportunities through the physical fairs and online platform. What's more, Asia's fashion spotlight, CENTRESTAGE will be held concurrently from 10 to 12 September, enabling visitors to see the latest collections from more than 240 watch and fashion brands."International exquisite brands featured at World Brand PiazzaThe Salon de TE will feature a series of top-tier international designer brands. Sponsored by Prince Jewellery & Watch for the 11th consecutive year, the World Brand Piazza will present 12 renowned international brands, including Blancpain, Breguet, Chopard, CORUM, FRANCK MULLER, Glashutte Original, Jacob & Co, Jaquet Droz, Juvenia, PARMIGIANI FLEURIER, Piaget and SARCAR Geneve.Wide array of luxury and fashion watches in different product zonesShowcasing watches of different designs, the Salon de TE will comprise various thematic zones including Craft Treasure, Chic & Trendy and Renaissance Moment. The Craft Treasure zone will feature high-end functional mechanical watches and jewellery watches. Among them is the Six Steeds in the Tang Dynasty from Hong Kong brand Memorigin - the company's first manual-winding watch with a central tourbillon and free sprung balances. The watch features the stunning scenery of the Yangtze River, Yellow River, China's famous sacred mountains and a vivid 18K golden horse sculpture, showcasing exquisite micro-engraving skills requiring 260 hours of intricate craftsmanship. This artistic timepiece is a collectable item for watch lovers.The Chic & Trendy zone highlights a series of fashionable watch brands, including a solar-powered watch from Belgium brand Ice-Watch. Users simply need to expose it to natural or artificial light to operate without the need to change the battery, making it easy to use and eco-friendly. The Roulette Master Skeleton Automatic from Swiss brand Romago features a dial with a roulette design and a transparent case back exposing the open-worked rotor through the sapphire-crystal. This is a watch with inner and outer beauty, which has water resistance up to 50 metres.A series of classic and elegant watches are showcased in the Renaissance Moment zone. The Iza Collection from Swiss brand COINWATCH is an elegant lady's watch with 16 diamonds and a rose gold bezel, complemented by stylish double-wrap leather straps. Many more international famous brands are featured in this zone, including DOXA, Leonard Montres and more. In addition, visitors can visit the Pageant of Eternity, which is a premium zone for original equipment manufacturing (OEM) and original design manufacturing (ODM) high-end watches.Click2Match enables business matching, seminars offer business insightsThe HKTDC has mobilised its network of 50 offices worldwide to invite overseas buyers to connect and maintain contact with exhibitors through video conferencing. The AI-powered online business matching platform, Click2Match will help to bring exhibitors together with the most suitable buyers. Participants can also use the tool to enjoy functions such as a meeting planner, live chat and e-business card exchange, helping them to overcome barriers and build business connections around the world.Industry participants are also invited to join a series of forums and seminars that will provide first-hand market information and insights into the latest business trends. The Hong Kong International Watch Forum will be broadcast online on 6 September, featuring sharing from representatives of watch associations from Mainland China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan and Switzerland. They will share the latest market insights and discuss the future direction for development in the global watch manufacturing sector. Under the theme "Redesigning the Future of Luxury Watches", the Asian Watch Conference (9 September) will invite representative from iClick Interactive to share her views on online and offline marketing strategies for luxury watch brands in the mainland, while Dayton Industrial representative will offer insights into the latest developments in the watch industry.Events, lucky draws and attractive shopping offers for public visitorsA selection of public activities will be held during the fairs including watch parades, "Watch X CENTRESTAGE" crossover parade and product launches, with the participation of local celebrities such as Cheung Tat-ming, Nelson Cheung and Chan Wing-luk. There will also be watch craftsmanship demonstrations and introductions to valuable collections, helping the public to get a deeper understanding of the art of watchmaking.Lucky draws will be held during the fairs with prizes such as trendy watches, jewellery pieces, fashion items and more. Visitors can also participate in the Smart Bidding Game to bid for their favourite watches starting at low prices. Public visitors can download electronic coupons ( https://bit.ly/2W7eWU7 ) to enjoy discounts of up to 40% when buying watches. In addition, key opinion leaders will conduct livestreaming shows during the fairs to introduce selected watches at the onsite studio.Design competition to promote local creativityTo raise design standards for the Hong Kong watch industry and nurture budding local designers, the HKTDC has joined together with the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd and the Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Ltd to jointly-organise the 38th Hong Kong Watch & Clock Competition. This year's competition was divided into two categories - the Open Group and Student Group - under the respective themes of "Minimalism" and "Live Fully". The creations of the competition winners and finalists will be on display throughout the Watch & Clock Fair to showcase the best of Hong Kong's creativity to visitors.Organised by the HKTDC, CENTRESTAGE, Asia's premier fashion event will be held from 10 to 12 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), featuring designer brands from around the world. The concurrent fairs will create synergies and new business opportunities for both industries.Export performance for Hong Kong watches and clocks- 2020 (total value): HK$46.4 billion- YoY change: -27.8%- Jan-June 2021 (total value): HK$27.8 billion- YoY change: +45.4%Websites:- Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair: https://hkwatchfair.hktdc.com- Salon de TE: https://hkwatchfair.hktdc.com/te- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3zibQuXAbout 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentJanet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgAngel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4544, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

16 8 月, 2021

Five HKTDC August fairs and ICMCM draw to a close

HONG KONG, Aug 16, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The HKTDC Food Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), as well as the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), jointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, have all drawn to a successful close. The five public fairs brought together over 900 exhibitors and attracted more than 370,000 visitors.The Food Expo, Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), Hong Kong International Tea Fair, Home Delights Expo and Beauty & Wellness Expo drew to a close today, attracting more than 370,000 visitors.The Gourmet Zone at the Food Expo showcased exquisite high-end food products. Various star chefs demonstrated "less salt and less sugar" recipes to encourage urbanites to develop healthy eating habits.Pavilions and exhibitors from overseas participated at the Food Expo through local representatives to promote speciality foods and beverages. Mainland China, Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Thailand and Vietnam were among the countries and regions taking part.Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "The Food Expo and concurrent fairs welcomed more than 370,000 visitors, showing that people are willing to spend and keen to use their consumption vouchers even though food and beverage sampling was not allowed in the fairground due to the pandemic. We were also encouraged to see a number of group pavilions participating through their local representatives to grasp business opportunities, confirming Hong Kong as an important trading platform."Purchases through e-payment become popularThe HKTDC interviewed more than 1,400 visitors during the fairs through random sampling. A positive appetite for consumption was reported, with 44% of the respondents spending HK$1,000 or more and the average per capita spending reaching HK$1,273. With 85% of exhibitors at the fairs accepting at least one consumption voucher payment method, the survey showed that nearly 80% of visitors made purchases at the fairs using electronic payment methods, while more than half of the respondents used their consumption vouchers, highlighting the growing popularity of e-payment services.The Hong Kong & Kowloon Provisions, Wine & Spirit Dealers' Association Limited (PWSA) and Nam Pak Hong Association set up a pavilion at the Food Expo for the first time, bringing about 20 food companies to promote their alcoholic beverages, canned foods, snacks, fruits and other food items. PWSA Director Michael Li said: "All our exhibitors adopted e-payment services to create a seamless shopping experience for customers. During the expo, around 80% of our sales were transacted through e-payment platforms. The Consumption Voucher Scheme has certainly helped to stimulate consumption and our sales result was better than expected. We plan to expand our participation at next year's expo."Special temptations attract customers and boost salesWith great food and wine pairings in mind, some of the exhibitors at the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition) said that running the fair in conjunction with the Food Expo had boosted exhibitors' sales performance. John Lee, Director at Everrise International Trading Co Ltd and spokesperson for Wuliangye International (HK) Limited, said: "To engage more customers, we offered discount vouchers during the fair period which can be used when they make purchases at our stores at a later date. Our eye-catching booth also attracted many customers to visit. We expect our onsite sales turnover to reach HK$1 million."At the Home Delights Expo, exhibitor Bingo Leung, Customer Service Assistant at Smartech International Marketing Limited, Hong Kong, said the company's participation in the expo over the years had helped promote its brand and new products to consumers. This year, Smartech launched new promotion plans tailored to the Consumption Voucher Scheme. "We provided discount offers, free gifts and four e-payment methods to tempt consumers to use their consumption vouchers for purchases. Our bestsellers included handheld vacuum cleaners, robotic vacuum cleaners and dehumidifiers. We are very satisfied with the results and expect the five-day expo to generate HK$500,000 in sales turnover."Since the Beauty & Wellness Expo debuted in 2016, Beauty Sensation Co Ltd, Hong Kong has participated as an exhibitor every year. Marketing Director Kin Wong expressed strong confidence in the company's sales performance at this year's event. "The expo provides an effective platform to raise brand awareness and promote our Australian skincare products to both existing and new customers," he said. "Visitors were particularly interested in our organic skincare products this year and we expect our onsite sales turnover to exceed HK$1 million."Global traders view Hong Kong as an important trading platformDespite the ongoing travel restrictions, numerous group pavilions participated at the Food Expo through local representatives, including the Ministry of Agriculture Trade Promotion Center, Shandong Province, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Chongqing City from Mainland China which joined Japan, Korea and Poland to offer their food specialities to local shoppers. The Tea Fair also featured the Guizhou Pavilion to promote famous teas from the province. In addition to organising local buying missions, the HKTDC arranged nearly 200 virtual business matching meetings to enable global traders to stay connected and forge new deals.Blanka Golebiowska, Deputy Consul-General at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Hong Kong, said the Food Expo had given them the chance to connect with local importers to explore further cooperation. "The expo is a great place for us to promote Polish food products and test the market. We really appreciate the HKTDC's efforts in organising virtual business matching meetings to enable potential business development," Ms Golebiowska said.For more comments from exhibitors and buyers, please visit: https://bit.ly/3g4N8XcWebsites:- HKTDC Food Expo: https://hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition): https://hkwinefairaugust2021.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair: https://hkteafair.hktdc.com- HKTDC Home Delights Expo: https://homedelights.hktdc.com- HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo: https://hkbeautyexpo.hktdc.com- The International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM): https://icmcm.hktdc.com- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3AKzJLXAbout 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAngel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4544, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.orgSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

12 8 月, 2021

HKTDC Food Expo and concurrent fairs open today

HONG KONG, Aug 12, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The HKTDC Food Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo, hosted by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The five public fairs have assembled 900 exhibitors from Hong Kong and beyond to showcase a global selection of delicacies and lifestyle products. About 85% of the exhibitors said they are making available at least one consumption voucher payment method to provide a smoother shopping experience for visitors.Edward Yau, Secretary of Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (front row, fourth from right), Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC (front row, fourth from left), Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director (front row, third from right), and other distinguished guests officiated at the opening ceremony.The Food Expo is a summer shopping hotspot, attracting thousands of public visitors. The Public Hall presents a global selection of specialty food products.In addition to the five public fairs, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), jointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, runs at the HKCEC on 12 and 13 August.Officiating at this morning's opening ceremony for the fairs was Guest of Honour Edward Yau, Secretary of Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director, said: "Given the current travel restrictions, we are grateful to see group and individual exhibitors from outside Hong Kong showcasing products through their local representatives, including those from Mainland China, Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Norway, the Philippines, Poland, Thailand and Vietnam. Their presence underlines Hong Kong's strength as the ideal trading platform through which food suppliers from around the world can expand their business networks. We are most delighted to welcome 900 exhibitors who are showing their support for these events."On-site hygiene measures to ensure safe shopping experienceThe well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors is the top priority at the exhibitions. Various measures have been put in place to protect people against the pandemic, including requiring everyone entering and staying in the fairground to wear a mask; not allowing eating, drinking and sample tasting in the fairground; setting up temperature-screening stations; providing hand sanitiser at multiple locations around the venue; and stepping up the cleaning and disinfection of exhibitors' booths and the venue itself. Physical ticket sales for the August exhibitions are not available at the fairground to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance toll booths to gain entry. To spread the flow of visitors and encourage the public to visit the exhibitions during non-peak hours, the HKTDC has introduced morning and night admission tickets at special prices.Updates on the visitor flow and crowd control measures at the HKCEC will be provided on the event website for the consideration of those wishing to visit the fairs. For more details, please visit hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com/tcFood Expo (12-16 Aug): wide selection of delicacies and culinary masterclassesThe 31st Food Expo comprises the Gourmet Zone and the Public Hall. The Public Hall, which opens throughout the five-day fair, showcases a global selection of food items including Japanese salted half boiled egg marinated in sea salt from Okinawa (booth: 1B-D02); Malaysian bak kut teh from Klang Back Street King Seng (booth: 1B-C21); radish pickles with three times more Chinese parsley, deep fried garlic, sakura shrimp and dried chillies (booth: 1C-B34) and low-calorie cauliflower rice (booth: 1E-E21). The Premium Food Zone in the Public Hall features food items offered by more than 20 renowned brands, including Tai Pan's brand-new vegan snowy mooncakes, Maxims' "Minions Collection" mooncakes, as well as other products from Nissin, Chui Lau Heung, WH Group, Chewy, Kee Wah, Wing Wah, Super Star Group, Tao Ti and more. New joiners in 2021 include Sau Tao and Chen Yun Pao Chuan.The much-anticipated Gourmet Zone is open to the public for four consecutive days (12 to 15 August) and features five thematic zones, namely Asian Cuisine, Western Delicacy, Sweet Delight, Green Palate and Coffee Avenue. Speciality food items are featured in each zone, including tender aged sashimi with rich umami taste (booth: 3C-B17); lemon ginger kombucha that is both healthy and delicious (booth: 3C-E08); decaffeinated sparkling coffee tea brewed from Bolivian Cascara (booth: 3C-F24); Japanese Kohakuiro plum wine that uses 100% Japanese plums soaked in distilled brandy (booth: 3C-A02); and Daitouryou premium white peach from Yamanashi, Japan with 13.5 degrees of sweetness (booth: 3C-F07).Activity highlights at the Food Expo include:- Culinary masterclasses on "Less Salt and Sugar" recipes to encourage urbanites to develop healthy eating habits (13 August)- Cooking demonstrations performed by eight celebrity chefs, including Ricky Cheung, Executive Chef of The Food Story; Kitty Siu, Executive Chef of Kitty's Kitchen; Will Leung, Executive Chef of 1111; Sandy Keung, founder and Executive Chef of Good BBQ; and Ng Kong-kiu, founder and Chef of Ju Xing Home (12 to 15 August)- Local Fresh 123 at which the Fish Marketing Organization and Vegetables Marketing Organization will introduce fresh ingredients from local fisheries and farms (13 August)- A series of seminars covering topics such as Dark Magic in Microwave Cooking (13 August), Plant-based Meat Development in Hong Kong (13 August), EatSmart Restaurant Star+ (12 August), Diet Therapy (14 and 15 August) and Foodwise (13 August)- The Beef-and-egg King Prize Presentation Ceremony, highlighting what goes into making one of the most popular choices served at Hong Kong-style cafes, the beef and egg sandwich (13 August)- Hosted by Jacky Chan, Chef's Dialogue invites three renowned Hong Kong chefs to share their tips on cooking, eating and ingredient selection (14 August)Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition) (12-16 Aug): expert sharing, huge range of drinksA new addition to the August fairs, the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition) introduces a broad range of old and new world wines, such as Luna di Luna prosecco (booth: 3D-A01) and wine from the East Helan Mountain Area of Ningxia, Mainland China (booth: 3C-G14). Popular craft beers include Hokkaido Brewing Melon Ale (booth: 3D-A31); MiMi Beer Ruby Roselle Gose (booth: 3C-G13) and Lion Rock Signature, a beer with a silky foam and a refreshing complex fruity taste (booth: 3C-G12). Japanese sake and spirits lovers will enjoy Pure Rice Daiginjo Dairi Special Limited, a masterpiece sake by Fujinishiki brewed with Omachi rice and low-flow water from Mount Fuji, with a specially designed bottle in the shape of the sacred mountain (booth: 3C-G08), Japanese whisky with a unique yuzu and myrtle flavour (booth: 3C-G20) and other interesting brews.Wine lovers should not miss the series of activities covering the outlook for natural wines (13 August); sake basics delivered by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Wine & Spirits (13 August); a chit-chat on wine and food pairing with TV host Cecilia Wong (14 August); criteria for selecting high-quality wines from different production regions by Anty Fung, an MWM Wine School recognised instructor (14 August); spirit recommendations by the Hong Kong Wine and Spirits Association (15 August), and more.International Tea Fair (12-16 Aug): selected teas and teaware, inspirational eventsThe 12th Hong Kong International Tea Fair showcases a variety of high-quality specialty teas, including Rooibos Tea from South Africa (booth: 3D-A12), fully hand-processed Tieguanyin Coal Fired Tea (booth: 3D-A20), 2002 Yiwu Song Ping Hao Lao Shu Tea Block (booth: 3D-A16), premium blended Da Hong Pao and Aged Old Growth Shui Xian from Wuyi Mountain (booth: 3D-B13), Matcha Divine Cloud (booth: 3D-A08A) and other selected teas. Delicate teaware is also featured at the fair, such as NIKKO - FLOWER DANCE designed by Japanese artist Shinpei Naito (booth: 3D-A08), Nambu Iron Kettle from Japan (booth: 3D-A02) and a Famille-Rose tea bowl with an intricate image of a woman teaching her child in the garden (booth: 3D-A10). Activities include an introduction to Japanese tea leaves (13 August), Tea for the Soul (14 August), The Mystery of Tea Therapy (15 August) and a milk tea workshop hosted by KamCha (15 August).Home Delights Expo (12-16 Aug): one-stop shop for home tech and household productsThe Home Delights Expo returns for its seventh edition, running for five consecutive days. The Avenue of Delights gathers multiple lifestyle brands, such as Towngas, ZWILLING J.A. Henckels, Tiger and German Pool, offering various kinds of home appliances, kitchenware, tableware and household items. Featured products include sterilisation items such as a car air purifier that employs NASA-developed technology (booth: 3F-D20) and an intelligent disinfection diffuser using ultrasonic technology (booth: 3G-E07).In addition, the fair features Hong Kong's first-ever Smart (IoT) Anti-scorch Gas Built-in Hob (booth: 3F-E02), which can be linked to a mobile application that ensures hassle-free monitoring and supports remote emergency shut-off; and a foldable universal cooker that can be used as an electric oven, a hot pot, a stir-fryer, a grill pan or a barbeque grill (booth: 3F-A16), offering a creative solution for those who love cooking but have limited space at home. Other attractions include a showcase of home design solutions from the Hong Kong Furniture and Decoration Trade Association, while Sharon Lam, Founder of Home Therapy, will deliver a talk on decluttering under the pandemic (12 August).Beauty & Wellness Expo (12-16 Aug): discover the formula for improved wellbeingThe fifth Beauty & Wellness Expo welcomes the Federation of Beauty Industry (H.K.), Hong Kong Hair & Beauty Merchants Association, International Beauty & Health General Union and The Cosmetic & Perfumery Association of Hong Kong to present a variety of health- and beauty-related products at their pavilions. Popular products include a bedding and mattress spray with an anti-dust mite function and blended Indian Neem and eucalyptus essential oils (booth: 3E-D06); an energy-balancing therapy machine that incorporates big data into body analysis and health advice (booth: 3E-A12); and a professional plasma skin purification treatment that employs thermal plasma condensation technology to purify skin, enhance absorption and accelerate skin regeneration (booth: 3D-C01).Mask-induced skin problems have become of increasing concern since the pandemic began. Beauty & Health Columnist Yoko Tsang will share tips on treating mask-related skin problems (15 August). On the same day, the Hong Kong China Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness will stage an event to introduce the Hong Kong Bodybuilding & Fitness Invitation Championship.ICMCM (12 to 13 August): convergence of healthcare insightsJointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM) runs on 12 and 13 August. The conference this year is themed "Integrative Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19 and Related Disorders: Clinical Studies and Product Development", presenting invaluable Chinese medicine insights to industry practitioners. The speaker line-up features professors from Yale University in the United States and experts from the Netherlands, Malaysia, Mainland China and Hong Kong. Running in a hybrid format, physical and online sessions will be offered to facilitate the exchange of ideas among participants. Registered Chinese medicine practitioners in Hong Kong are eligible for the CME application.More opportunities to spend consumption vouchers plus daily lucky drawThe HKTDC has invited Octopus and WeChat Pay to provide exhibitors with exclusive discounts to encourage them to use the payment platforms, which in turn will give visitors more opportunities to spend their recently received consumption vouchers under the HKSAR Government's Consumption Voucher Scheme. Besides, the "Buy-more-win-more Lucky Draw" will be held every day during the exhibition period with prizes including five-star hotel accommodation packages, restaurant vouchers, luxury food items, skincare kits and health products. Spending HK$200 or more with a single receipt gives visitors one entry into the lucky draw - the more you spend, the greater your chance of winning.The HKTDC has launched the August Happy Buy website for the five exhibitions, allowing the public to keep up to date with the latest shopping news and various flash sales, including a HK$1 Super Star Seafood Feast, bottled Hong Kong-style milk tea and Musang King durian snowy mooncakes. E-coupons can be downloaded in advance to enjoy all the special offers at the exhibitions. For more details, please visit the August Happy Buy website at https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/foodIn addition, a vaccination incentive campaign is running during the fairs to give out 30,000 free admissions to citizens who have been vaccinated (that is, having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine). Members of the public can enter the venue for free on weekday mornings (12, 13 and 16 August before 12 noon) by presenting their COVID-19 vaccination record. Free admission will be given on a first-come-first-served basis while the quota lasts. Many exhibitors are also participating in providing discounts and gifts for people who have been vaccinated. For details, please visit the August Happy Buy website.Websites:- HKTDC Food Expo: https://hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition): https://hkwinefairaugust2021.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair: https://hkteafair.hktdc.com- HKTDC Home Delights Expo: https://homedelights.hktdc.com- HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo: https://hkbeautyexpo.hktdc.com- The International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM): https://icmcm.hktdc.com- August Happy Buy website: https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/food/- Photo Download: https://bit.ly/2VGD0x5About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAngel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4544, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.orgSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

4 8 月, 2021

HKTDC Food Expo and five concurrent events open next week

HONG KONG, Aug 4, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The HKTDC Food Expo, Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo, hosted by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will be held concurrently at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 12 August. More than 880 exhibitors are expected to participate, providing the public with a diverse one-stop shopping experience.The HKTDC Food Expo, Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and the ICMCM will be staged concurrently at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, starting from 12 August. Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, introduced highlights of the six events at a press conference today.The Food Expo gathers international foods from different countries and regions, including a Coffee Capsule which is originated, roasted, ground and packaged in France, and natural beauty care product rosehip puree from Finland.The Hong Kong International Tea Fair presents a number of high quality teas including premium Da Hong Pao, aged Pu'er tea and South African Rooibos Tea.Running alongside the five public events at the HKCEC, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), jointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, will be staged on 12 and 13 August.Introducing highlights of all six events at a press conference today, Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "More than 830,000 visitors attended the seven-day HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair held last month, showing that the public appetite is there for our upcoming exhibitions this month. The Food Expo has long been a popular annual event in the city and this year it will be complemented by the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition). The concurrent exhibitions will provide a great place for people to shop and relax during the summer vacation. What's more, everyone can enjoy plenty of offers and discounts and find a good way to spend the consumption vouchers they received earlier this month."Highlighted Food Expo presents global tasting tour with distinctive pavilionsThe 31st Food Expo presents the Public Hall and the Gourmet Zone which have long been popular with foodlovers, showcasing a broad range of speciality foods and drinks from around the world. The Premium Food Zone in the Public Hall will feature more than 20 renowned brands, including Tai Pan, Chui Lau Heung, Nissin, WH Group, Maxims and more. New joiners in 2021 include Sau Tao and Chen Yun Pao Chuan, adding to the diversity of products available at the expo. Those wishing to seek out exquisite high-end food items should head to the Gourmet Zone, which will display delicacies from Asia and Western, desserts, organic foods and speciality coffees from across the globe.A number of organisations will set up pavilions at the expo, including Hong Kong & Kowloon Provisions, Wine & Spirit Dealers' Association x Nam Pak Hong Association, Hong Kong People and Brands, and the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. There will also be multiple regional pavilions set up through local representatives, including the Ministry of Agriculture Trade Promotion Center, Shandong Province, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Chongqing City from Mainland China, as well as pavilions from Japan, Korea and Poland presenting their countries' specialties.Those who love to travel and sample the cuisines of the world will enjoy the global tasting tour offered at the Food Expo. Asian food includes Jeju black pig with no gamey flavour from Korea, the highest-grade Daitouryou white peach from Yamanashi, Japan, top Musang King durian pulp from Malaysia, and River snail rice noodles from Liuzhou of Guangxi. Looking further afield, there are coffee capsules from France with details of the roasting, grinding and packaging processes, natural beauty products and rosehip puree from Finland, rare chocolate from a 200-year-old cocoa tree in Peru, and beef balls made from top Australian wagyu beef.In addition to eating well, it is important to think about eating healthily. The Hong Kong Vegetable Marketing Organization and Fish Marketing Organization will feature high-quality ingredients from local fishermen and farmers. Various exhibitors will introduce healthy foods such as a vegetarian easy cooking pack, cauliflower rice, healthy stew soup, vegetarian mooncake and desserts. During the expo, famous chefs will demonstrate "less salt and less sugar" recipes to encourage urbanites to develop healthy eating habits. Celebrity chefs will also be invited to demonstrate cooking on the spot, including Executive Chef of The Food Story, Ricky Cheung and Mak Kwai-pui, founder of Tim Ho Wan Dim Sum Restaurant.Other activities at the expo include discussions on food technology, EatSmart Restaurant Star+, diet therapy, food wise and a range of other topics. There will also be Beef-and-egg King Prize Presentation Ceremony, highlighting what goes into making one of the most popular choices served at Hong Kong-style cafes, the beef and egg sandwich.Special edition of Wine & Spirits Fair features quality wines, beers, sakes and spiritsThe Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition) will introduce a broad range of alcoholic drinks including old and new world wines, sake, whisky and craft beer. Among the featured exhibits are special fruit beer from Hokkaido and limited-edition sake with a specially designed bottle in the shape of Mount Fuji. The Hong Kong Wine and Spirits Association and Hong Kong General Chamber of Wine & Spirits will exhibit fine wines from around the world. In addition, wine lovers should not miss the talk by Anty Fung, an MWM Wine School recognised instructor, who will teach participants what to look for when selecting high-quality wines from different production regions.Tea Fair presents Tea Therapy, Tea for the Soul and tips on HK-style milk teaThe 12th Hong Kong International Tea Fair presents a variety of high-quality speciality teas, such as Rooibos Tea from South Africa, fully handmade Tieguanyin Coal Fired Tea and Ceremonial Grade Matcha from Japan, as well as a variety of tea sets. The fair also features the Guizhou Pavilion, bringing famous products from the renowned tea-growing province. There will be talks on Tea Therapy and Tea for the Soul, linking the art of tea with health. Beside, KamCha will also share valuable insights into brewing Hong Kong-style milk tea.Home Delights Expo featues trendy utensils for new wave of home chefsThe seventh Home Delights Expo will feature a wide range of household appliances, kitchenware, tableware and household products. The Avenue of Delights will gather 40 exhibitors to display multiple lifestyle brands, including Towngas, ZWILLING J.A. Henckels, Tiger and German Pool. It will also present Hong Kong's first Internet of Things smart anti-scorch built-in gas hob along with a foldable five-function universal cooker from Japan.A number of exhibitors will also feature anti-epidemic and sterilisation products that can help ensure a safer home. Products include an intelligent disinfection diffuser using ultrasonic technology, an air purifier using a Korean-made CEPA filter, a floor-cleaning robot, smart sterilisation wardrobe, electronic bidet toilet seat with a nano organic anti-virus coating, a certified anti-viral mattress and a car air purifier that employs NASA-developed technology. The Hong Kong Furniture and Decoration Trade Association pavilion will exhibit different home design elements. And decluttering professional Sharon Lam will speak on the subject of "Household Tidying" offering suggestions on how people can declutter their homes amid the pandemic.Beauty & Wellness Expo showcases popular beauty and fitness productsThe fifth Beauty & Wellness Expo will showcase a series of beauty and wellness products, with four pavilions at which the Federation of Beauty Industry (H.K.), Hong Kong Hair & Beauty Merchants Association, International Beauty & Health General Union and The Cosmetic & Perfumery Association of Hong Kong will showcase all kinds of health- and beauty-related products. Featured products include a popular Korean shampoo set, organic face sunscreen, anti blue light booster, a bedding and mattress spray, and more. Exhibitors will also feature a portable gym for easy strength training at home, while diet therapy, health and beauty expert Yoko Tsang will share how to address skin problems caused by the prolonged wearing of masks.ICMCM runs in hybrid format, sharing important COVID-19-related researchJointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association Ltd (MCMIA), the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICICM) will be held on 12-13 August to provide the industry with topical information related to developments in Chinese medicine. The theme this year is "Integrative Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19 and Related Disorders: Clinical Studies and Product Development", with speakers including professors from Yale University in the United States and experts from the Netherlands, Malaysia, Mainland China and Hong Kong. The conference will run in a hybrid format with both physical and online sessions to allow more participants to exchange ideas. Registered Chinese medicine practitioners in Hong Kong will be eligible for the CME application.Octopus and WeChat Pay offer consumption voucher discounts plus daily lucky drawTo give the public the opportunity to spend their consumption vouchers as soon as possible, the HKTDC has invited Octopus and WeChat Pay to provide exhibitors with exclusive discounts. The response to this initiative has been overwhelming, with 85% of the exhibitors surveyed saying they will accept electronic consumption vouchers. In addition, the "Buy-more-get-more Lucky Draw" will be held every day during the exhibition period with prizes including five-star hotel accommodation packages, restaurant vouchers, luxury food items, skincare kits and health products. Spending HK$200 or more with a single receipt gives visitors one entry into the lucky draw - the more you spend, the greater your chance of winning.The HKTDC has launched the August Happy Buy website for the five exhibitions, allowing the public to keep up to date with the latest shopping news and various flash sales, including HK$1 mooncakes, fruit vinegar and almond egg rolls. E-coupons can be downloaded in advance to enjoy all the special offers at the exhibitions. Visit the August Happy Buy website at https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/foodIn addition, a vaccination incentive campaign will run during the event to give out 30,000 free admissions to citizens who have been vaccinated (that is, having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine). Members of the public can enter the venue for free on weekdays (12, 13 and 16 August) by presenting their COVID-19 vaccination record. Free admission will be given on a first-come-first-served basis while the quota lasts. Many exhibitors are also participating in providing discounts and gifts for people who have been vaccinated. For details, please visit the August Happy Buy website.The five exhibitions will last for just five days, but online store platform Boutir is providing exhibitors with a 3-month electronic online store platform service for free, meaning that everyone can continue shopping online after the physical exhibition ends.Strengthened pandemic prevention measures to protect health of visitorsThe well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors is the top priority at the upcoming exhibitons. Various measures will be put in place to protect people against the pandemic, including requiring everyone entering and staying in the fairground to wear a mask; eating, drinking and sample tasting will not be allowed in the fairground; setting up temperature-screening stations; providing hand sanitiser at multiple locations around the venue; and stepping up the cleaning and disinfection of exhibitors' booths and the venue itself. All on-site staff and exhibitors will be required to present a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test result or a record of receiving two COVID-19 vaccination injections in order to enter the fairground. All visitors to the exhibition need to record their entry date and time using the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app or by filling out a record form.Physical ticket sales for the August exhibitions will not be available at the fairground to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance toll booths to gain entry. To spread the flow of visitors and encourage the public to visit the exhibitions during non-peak hours, the HKTDC has introduced morning and night admission tickets at special price.Websites:- HKTDC Food Expo: https://hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition): https://hkwinefairaugust2021.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair: https://hkteafair.hktdc.com- HKTDC Home Delights Expo: https://homedelights.hktdc.com- HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo: https://hkbeautyexpo.hktdc.com- The International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM) https://icmcm.hktdc.com- August Happy Buy website https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/food/- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3AezPeFAbout 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs DepartmentClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAngel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4544, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.orgSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

26 7 月, 2021

Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition winning pieces on display at Jewellery Show

HONG KONG, Jul 26, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show opened yesterday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and will run until 29 July. Guest of honour at the opening ceremony today for the twin jewellery shows was Eliza Lee, Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Commerce, Industry and Tourism) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). In advance of the twin jewellery shows, the results of the 22nd Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition were announced, throwing the spotlight on the creative flair of local jewellery designers.Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show opened at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) yesterday.Open Group Best of Show Award and Craftsmanship and Technology Award - Designer: Yuen Ching-chiStudent Group Champion - Designer: Chan Wing-lamUnder the theme "Light. Shadow", this year's competition highlighted not only the level of talent locally but also the resilience of Hong Kong's jewellery industry and its ability to move forward from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The winning pieces are now on display at the Jewellery Show (Hall 3E Concourse) to showcase the ingenuity of original Hong Kong designs to jewellery buyers and exhibitors.Jointly organised by the HKTDC, the Hong Kong Jewellers' & Goldsmiths' Association, Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association, Hong Kong Jewelry Manufacturers' Association and the Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, China, the Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition aims to enhance the design quality of the local jewellery industry, identify talent, and promote Hong Kong's outstanding jewellery collections to local and international buyers. This year's competition was divided into two categories, the Open Group and the Student Group, in which experienced and budding jewellery designers demonstrated their creative edge and excellent craftsmanship.Open Group: Best of Show Award Winners demonstrate unique conceptsThree Best of Show awards were given in the Open Group. Yuen Ching-chi's entry, "Follow the Wind" won a Best of Show award as well as the Craftsmanship and Technology Award. The winning piece can be worn in different ways. A fan with a pearl in the middle can be taken off and added to a ring, while two black jadeite fans can be combined to create a different style of necklace. Ms Yuen explained that the pearl on the fan represents the sun while the icy jadeite represents flowers. The sponsoring company for the piece, Sharon Yuen Jewelry Design, also received the Craftsmanship and Technology Award, recognising the production team's excellence in jewellery craftsmanship.Another Best of Show Award winner was Tang Yuk-ying, who selected a variety of materials and gemstones of different colours to create "Window of the Heart", a ring with a hollowed-out design. There's a saying that "when a door closes, another one opens", and in her winning piece Ms Tang is encouraging people to open the door to their heart and take a leap forward to a brighter future.The third Best of Show Award winner was Ng Ki-kai, whose design titled "Ming" incorporates the concept of light and shadow expressed through the sun and the moon. The golden pearl represents the sun and a black pearl represents the moon, while three-layered "golden lines" represent the hills and clouds from classical Chinese paintings. Diamonds on the edge of the ring symbolise the rays of the sun breaking through layers of cloud at dawn.Student Group winners showcase next-generation creativityOpen to students of institutions registered in Hong Kong, the Student Group category aims to inspire more young design talents to join the jewellery design profession. Chan Wing-lam from the School of Continuing Education at Hong Kong Baptist University won the Student Group Champion with her brooch design, "Spring Bird". The design was inspired by the reflections created by Chinese revolving horse lanterns, where light and shadow work together to produce stunning projections that are often seen as a metaphor for life.The First Runner-up in the Student Group was Lo Lok-yi from CCC Mong Man Wai College. Her design, "Polaris Melody", is a necklace composed of various interwoven metals, Swiss blue topaz and olive-green cubic zirconia. It was inspired by the rhythm and trails of light of the Polaris star, symbolising how there is always a ray of hope to guide us in the dark.The Student Group's Second Runner-up title was awarded to Lam Wai-yee from the School of Continuing Education at Hong Kong Baptist University. Her design, "Yanxia Ring", is a piece of jewellery that can be worn separately as a pendant or a ring, or together as a combined piece. The work is inlaid with gemstones of different colours, representing the radiant glow between light and shadow and the beauty of a rainbow. The centre of the ring is inlaid with white jade to symbolise bringing light into the world.Nearly 150 entries were submitted for this year's competition. The six-strong judging panel evaluated the entries based on creativity and innovation, aesthetics, craftsmanship and wearability, topic relevance and marketability (the latter applicable only to the Open Group). The three Open Group winners will be sponsored to attend a three-day online jewellery design course at the Hiko Mizuno College of Jewellery in Japan.Twin jewellery shows conducted in physical and online formats for first timeAs the pandemic continues, this year's twin jewellery shows are being conducted in a physical and online hybrid format for the first time, bringing together close to 440 exhibitors including overseas exhibitors who are joining the show online. Both shows are also open to jewellery-loving public visitors for the first time. Overseas buyers who cannot attend the physical events at the HKCEC can make business deals through online video conferences with exhibitors. The online show runs until 5 August.Photo download:- Opening Ceremony and fair ground: https://bit.ly/3i0faEF- Open Group: https://bit.ly/3y83K7k- Student Group: https://bit.ly/3kUXigl- Press Conference: https://bit.ly/3BFo6XMFair websites:- Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: http://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.com/- Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show: http://hkdgp.hktdc.com/About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Media enquiries:HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentAgnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.orgJanet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

20 7 月, 2021

More than 830,000 visitors attend 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair

HONG KONG, Jul 20, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut HKTDC World of Snacks drew to a successful close today. The seven-day fairs, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), attracted more than 830,000 visitors, offering a brand-new experience by bringing together a broad selection of books, sports and leisure products and snacks from more than 760 exhibitors.The HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded today. The event welcomed more than 830,000 visitors during its seven-day fair period, running concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut HKTDC World of Snacks.The HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo showcased a broad selection of sports and leisure products and services, allowing visitors to try out different experiences, discover new interests and make good use of their leisure time.The new HKTDC World of Snacks was well-received, featuring six thematic zones and bringing together more than 1,000 popular treats from across the globe.Book Fair marks return of large-scale physical public shows, with more to comeBenjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "This year's Hong Kong Book Fair attracted more than 830,000 visitors over its seven-day run. We express our sincere gratitude to exhibitors and the general public for their support. The Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut World of Snacks also drew eager participation, offering visitors a wide range of activities and products, as well as a relaxing and diverse experience."Mr Chau added that the gradual recovery of the local economy will lead to the return of more physical public shows, and that the HKTDC is preparing to stage more such exhibitions to give a further boost to the recovery. These include the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, which will run from 25 to 29 July, as well as the HKTDC Food Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, Beauty & Wellness Expo, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and HKTDC Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), which will run from 12 to 16 August.Hundreds of cultural activities attract 310,000+ attendeesMore than 250 cultural events were held on-site during the fair period, including the Theme of the Year: "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul" Seminar Series, the Renowned Writers Seminar Series, and seminars under the theme English and International Reading. A total of over 600 events have been held to date in connection with the Book Fair, including activities under the month-long Cultural July citywide campaign, drawing more than 310,000 attendees. Five seminars under the Renowned Writers banner were streamed live online and attracted more than 130,000 views, enabling booklovers outside Hong Kong to participate virtually.Average per capita spending at Book Fair reaches HK$817The HKTDC commissioned an independent market research agency to conduct an on-site survey during the Book Fair, interviewing more than 800 visitors. Respondents reported that their average per capita spending at the Book Fair was HK$817, representing 65% of their overall average annual spending on books (HK$1,262). The survey results highlight the fact that the Book Fair remains a major book-purchasing platform for the public. Most respondents said they were drawn to the event by the prospect of new releases (82%), followed by discounted items (40%), children's books (17%) and diversified cultural activities (17%).Most popular genres: fiction, literature, comics, self-improvement and travelThe survey also revealed more about the reading habits and preferences of visitors. Some 98% of respondents said they had read printed books in the past month, spending an average of 20 hours reading. The most popular genres were fiction (58%), literature (38%), comics (26%), self-improvement (22%) and travel (18%), with other popular genres including language study, social science, and arts and music. The survey also found that more than 70% of respondents had read e-books in the past month, spending an average of 15 hours reading.Array of onsite hygiene measures provide reassuranceWith the safety of the public and exhibitors remaining its top priority, the HKTDC adopted a range of onsite hygiene measures during the fairs. A total of 82% of respondents said they were satisfied with the crowd control measures adopted, while 86% said the various health measures put in place at the fairground helped to reassure them during their visit. The vaccination incentive campaign launched by the HKTDC along with a number of exhibitors was well received by the public. The HKTDC also offered some 30,000 free admissions to vaccinated visitors.Exhibitions, seminars and more continue in Cultural JulyWhile the Hong Kong Book Fair closed today, readers can still revisit recordings from about 100 selected seminars through the fair website or via the HKTDC's online video channels. The Cultural July citywide campaign continues until the end of this month with a broad range of activities including arts and cultural tours, exhibitions and seminars. For details, please visit the Cultural July website.Sports and Leisure Expo and debut World of Snacks well-attendedThe Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut World of Snacks also concluded today, after showcasing a broad selection of sports and leisure products and services along with tasty treats from across the globe. On-site events organised by the HKTDC, as well as various trials and interactive experiences offered by exhibitors, were enthusiastically received. The World of Snacks offered a brand-new experience to visitors and helped to create a vibrant atmosphere at the fairground.WebsitesHong Kong Book Fair: http://www.hkbookfair.comCultural July: http://www.hkbookfair.com/culturaljulyHong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: http://www.hktdc.com/hksportsleisureexpoWorld of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.comBook Fair video playlist: https://bit.ly/3ziVX6PPhoto download link: https://bit.ly/3z6Ssk2About HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC Communications and Public Affairs DepartmentHong Kong Book FairSunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.orgClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgHong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of SnacksSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

16 7 月, 2021

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

Fair runs under 'Inspirational and Motivational Reading' theme HONG KONG, July 14, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), begins today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and closes on 20 July. Running in tandem with the Book Fair are the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and debut HKTDC World of Snacks. Together they are welcoming more than 760 exhibitors to deliver a brand-new experience to visitors, with an array of books, leisure activities and tasty treats. Officiating at this morning's opening ceremony for the long-awaited event were Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, together with Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, and Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC. Carrie Lam (second from left), Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), together with Dr Peter K N Lam (second from right), Chairman of the HKTDC, Edward Yau (left), Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR, and Margaret Fong (right), Executive Director of the HKTDC, joined other guests at this morning's opening ceremony for the long-awaited 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair. After attending this morning's opening ceremony, Dr Peter K N Lam (second from right), Chairman of the HKTDC, visited the Children's Paradise, Art Gallery and other zones at the Book Fair together with Margaret Fong (right), Executive Director of the HKTDC, and Benjamin Chau (second from left), Deputy Executive Director of HKTDC. Hong Kong literature lovers have been eagerly awaiting the opening of the Book Fair in the hope of buying their favourite books and discovering new reading adventures. This year's fair has the theme "Inspirational and Motivational Reading" with the tagline "Reading the World - Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul". Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "After being rescheduled twice amid the volatility of the pandemic, we are delighted that the Hong Kong Book Fair can finally begin today. The HKTDC, publishers and the general public are unanimous in their desire for large-scale physical exhibitions such as this to return. The Book Fair presents a wide array of cultural activities, including the Eight Seminar Series and thematic exhibitions at the Art Gallery, that Hong Kong's booklovers have been yearning for. Along with the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the new World of Snacks, visitors can enjoy a wide range of literary events, sports and leisure products and activities, and indulge in popular snacks from across the globe."Thematic exhibitions aim at nourishing mindsAligning with this year's Book Fair theme, the HKTDC is showcasing a thematic exhibition, titled "Words to Warm the Heart", at the Art Gallery. The exhibition introduces a number of inspirational authors and some of their selected works, including (in no particular order) A Nong, Cheng Kok-kong, Lee Chack-fan, Philemon Choi, Wu Yin-ching, Shirley Loo, Agnes Chan, Joseph Sung, Su Hei and Rap Chan. Precious memorabilia from the authors are on display, including manuscripts, artworks and souvenirs, giving readers a deeper appreciation of the writers' creative journeys from different perspectives and encouraging them to seek out books that can motivate and inspire.The Theme of the Year: "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul" Seminar Series features leading inspirational authors to share their insights on creative writing with visitors. Lee Chack-fan examined "Seize the Day for Peace of Mind - Growth of Mankind amid Pandemic and Disaster" earlier today (14 July), sharing his thoughts on how to live a more valuable life. Agnes Chan will share on effective parenting methods in the seminar "Nurture Outstanding Children with Honesty, Courage and Kindness" tomorrow (15 July), while Joseph Sung will discuss his outlook on life by comparing it to football in the seminar "Football Life" via video conferencing (17 July).Children's Paradise, the classic Hong Kong children's magazine, summed up the essence of childhood. It was first published in the 1950s and went on to become the city's longest-lasting kids' publication, growing together with generations of local children. The Cherished Memories of the Children's Paradise exhibition displays various items, such as illustrations, authentic works by Lo Koon-chiu (former Chief Editor of the magazine) and the very first issue of the publication. Cheung Chun-wah, former director of Children's Paradise, will talk about his relationship with the magazine at a seminar titled "Sentiments in Writing".Another exhibition, "The Dragon Never Dies - Bruce Lee @80", organised with the support of the Bruce Lee Club, brings together Bruce Lee memorabilia from collectors, such as portraits, movie tickets, precious photographs and stamps, to pay tribute to the kung fu star. Wong Yiu-keung, Chairman of the Bruce Lee Club, movie director Alex Cheung and collector Ng Kwai-lung will speak at the seminar "Their Bruce Lee Stories" (17 July), giving participants the chance to revisit some of the legendary kung fu star's most iconic moments.Eight Seminar Series promotes broad range of literatureThe Eight Seminar Series returns to the Book Fair in 2021, continuing to promote the joy of reading by exposing readers to authors and works from a diverse range of literary genres. In addition to the "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul" Seminar Series mentioned above, the Renowned Writers Seminar Series, co-organised with Mingpao and Yazhou Zhoukan, features a selection of acclaimed writers who will speak at seminars in person or via video.The speakers in this seminar series include Fan Jinshi, known as the "Daugter of Dunhuang"; Gu Chunfang, professor at the Peking University School of Arts and co-author of "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs: Biography of Fan Jinshi"; Liang Hong, professor at the School of Liberal Arts, Renmin University of China; Shuang Xuetao, the first Mainland Chinese author awarded the Taipei Literature Award; Wei Hui, a contemporary author from Mainland China; acclaimed novelist Ping Lu from Taiwan; Cheng Pei-kai, founder of the Chinese Civilisation Centre at the City University of Hong Kong; Louis Ng, Museum Director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum; Xu Zidong, author of Reading Eileen Chang; Ronald Soong, Eileen Chang's estate executor; and Zhou Jieru, Chief Editor of Hong Kong Literary. The seminars will enable authors to communicate with booklovers in a more direct and meaningful way.With the support of Book Depository, an international online bookstore, the English and International Reading Series invites renowned authors from around the globe to share their creative experiences. The line-up features Heather Morris, the New Zealand author who has sold more than 7 million copies of her novels worldwide; renowned British broadcaster and writer Jeremy Vine; New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels Brigid Kemmerer; fantasy and graphic novel maestro Neil Gaiman; sinologist and Professor of Modern Chinese History and Literature at the University of London Julia Lovell; Co-director of Proverse Hong Kong, a local independent publisher, Gillian Bickley; editor of the Asian Review of Books Peter Gordon; former president of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Juan Jose Morales; and experienced Mainland China-focused journalist and writer Mark O'Neill. Members of the public can broaden their horizons by immersing themselves in the diverse range of topics covered in these seminars.Other seminar series at the Book Fair include World of Knowledge, Children and Youth Reading, Spiritual Growth and Personal Development, Lifestyle and the Hong Kong Cultural and Historical Seminar Series, catering to the diverse tastes of readers from all age groups. Visit https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html for full details of the Eight Seminar Series.Thematic zones cater to booklovers' needsAs a cultural exchange platform, the Hong Kong Book Fair helps take booklovers on a global literary journey. The fair features numerous thematic zones, including Mainland China Publishers, General Books Pavilion, University Press Square, Spirituality Zone, Children's Paradise, e-Books & e-Learning Resources and more, all of which offer quality publications from around the world that allow visitors to gain more exposure to the works of different genres from different regions. This year, two newly added zones, Back to School and Virtual Classroom, present various educational materials and instruction methods that add fun to the learning process.Emerging sports featured at Sports and Leisure ExpoThis year's Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo delivers a full programme that offers numerous sporting and leisure experiences. In addition to existing thematic zones such as Sports Hub, Fun & Play, Outdoor Adventure and Handicraft Market, the expo features two new zones, namely Refresh & Relax and Travel. Excursion, which showcase exciting outdoors activities such as diving, rock climbing and stand-up paddleboarding. A range of free trials will be offered at the expo, including dodgebee and pickleball. There will also be demonstration sessions include dragon dancing, Brazilian jiu jitsu and capoeira, freestyle football and speed stacking. Visitors who prefer more sedentary pursuits can participate in activities such as photography workshops and table-top games. In addition, rugby sevens players Salom Yiu and Sham Wai-sum, freestyle football player Tony Ma and other Hong Kong sports stars will take part in a series of celebrity-sharing sessions and performances.The Japan Pavilion returns this year on the fifth floor. Exhibitors from nine cities and prefectures, including Hyogo, Okinawa, Kagoshima, Shikoku and new exhibitors Miyazaki, Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Kagawa and Oita, are teaming up with Kadokawa Hong Kong Limited from the KADOKAWA CORPORATION to showcase Japanese culture and entertainment hotspots.Debut World of Snacks presents global selection of treatsIn Hall 5, the new World of Snacks features six thematic zones - Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar - bringing together more than 1,000 popular treats from across the globe. International snacks on offer include Taiwanese pineapple cakes, Finnish organic bulletproof coffee, Bien Jamon Iberico ham, quality Cheesepop from Holland and more. Meanwhile, Oldie Snacks offers vegan fruit gummies, crispy peanuts with fresh shrimp roe in black truffle flavour, hand-crafted nougat and a host of other options. Exciting activities are open to all visitors including the lollipop bouquet, handmade rock candies and taro pastry workshops.Two citywide campaigns - Cultural July and Cultural Journey OnlineIn addition to hosting the one-week Book Fair, the HKTDC is also collaborating with numerous cultural and educational institutions, libraries, museums, shopping malls and cafes to organise a broad range of cultural events running from late June to end of July as part of the Cultural July - Joyful Summer Reading citywide campaign. What's more, the Cultural Journey Online webpage is now available on the Book Fair website, showcasing different e-reading resources, museum exhibitions and seminars offered by partners. Users can broaden their horizons and gain new knowledge at any time, whether its online or offline.Incentive campaign and enhanced on-site hygiene measuresThe HKTDC has engaged a number of exhibitors to offer various incentives to visitors who have been vaccinated, including discounts, giveaways and cash vouchers. Additionally, the HKTDC is offering 35,000 free admissions to people who have been vaccinated (having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine). Free admission is being offered in limited quotas before 12 noon on every day of the fair to encourage the public to visit at non-peak hours. Members of the public can present their COVID-19 vaccination records (including an electronic vaccination record saved in the iAM Smart, eHealth or LeaveHomeSafe apps or a paper vaccination record) at the designated lanes. Free admission is given on a first-come-first-served basis while quotas last. There will be 10,000 free admissions available each day for the first two days of the fair (14-15 July), and 3,000 each day for the rest of the fair period (16-20 July). More details can be found on the Book Fair website or mobile app: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Visitor/Vaccination-Incentive-Campaign.html.The well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors is the top priority at the Book Fair. Various measures will be put in place to protect people against the pandemic, including requiring everyone entering and staying in the fairground to wear a mask, setting up temperature-screening stations, providing hand sanitiser at multiple locations around the venue, and stepping up the cleaning and disinfection of exhibitors' booths and the venue itself. To spread the flow of visitors and encourage the public to visit the fair during non-peak hours, in addition to offering morning admission tickets, the HKTDC has introduced night admission tickets as well as the special re-entry promotion. Physical ticket sales are not available at the fairground to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance toll booths to gain entry.The HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will be held at the HKCEC from 15 to 18 July, running in parallel with the Book Fair. Youngsters and jobseekers can access the latest useful information on education and career opportunities for their life planning at this one-stop event. Admission to the expo is free of charge.The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks- Hong Kong Book Fair: www.hkbookfair.com/en- Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: www.hkbookfair.com/hksportsleisureexpo/en- World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.com- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3xHsB1HAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs DepartmentHong Kong Book FairSunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.orgClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgHong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of SnacksSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.orgEducation and Careers ExpoChristine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org

15 7 月, 2021

30th HKTDC Education & Careers Expo opens today

HONG KONG, Jul 15, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 30th edition of the HKTDC Education & Careers Expo opened today and runs until 18 July (Sunday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The expo is held concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and HKTDC World of Snacks, all taking place at the HKCEC. Open to the public free of charge, the two major sections at the expo - Education and Careers - provide comprehensive information on education and job opportunities.L-R: Benjamin Chau; Michele Anderson, Vice-Consul, Trade Commissioner, Consulate General of Canada in HK; Benoit Cormier, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of France in HK and Macau; Ingrid Yeung, Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service of the HKSAR; Margaret Fong; Carrie Yau, Executive Director, Vocational Training Council; Stephen Mann, AD - Student & Curriculum Development, Hong Kong Institute of Construction; Lai Kam Fai, Chief Engineer, Electrical and Mechanical Services DepartmentSix educational zones have been set up at this year's expo, including the Self-Betterment Zone, Tertiary Academy Zone, Vocational and Professional Education Zone, Continuing Education Zone, Creative and Educational Support Services Zone and International Exchange Village.More than 90 on-site events are being organised during the expo, including fire investigation dog performances and seminars on further education, career opportunities, immigration information and working holidays in overseas countries.Ingrid Yeung, Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), officiated at the opening ceremony this morning. In her welcoming remarks, Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director, said: "Entering its 30th edition, the Education & Careers Expo is a one-stop platform for students and jobseekers looking to review a broad range of education opportunities and career options. This year, we are delighted to welcome 800 exhibitors, including educational institutions, government departments, public organisations, professional associations and private enterprises representing 14 countries and regions."Six education-themed zones highlight local and overseas opportunitiesSix educational zones have been set up at this year's expo, including the Tertiary Academy Zone, Vocational and Professional Education Zone, Continuing Education Zone, Creative and Educational Support Services Zone, International Exchange Village and the newly launched Self-Betterment Zone, featuring a wide range of courses and self-enhancement programmes offered by different educational institutes for students, especially Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE) graduates looking to chart a pathway according to their interests and capabilities.The expo's education theme days highlight studying in the United States (16 July), France (17 July) and Canada (18 July), with representatives from consulate general offices on hand to introduce the prerequisites for admission, application procedures, information on campus life and more. Visitors can also meet with representatives from various officially recognised bodies to get first-hand information on studying abroad. Participating institutions include Advantage Austria Hong Kong and Jinan University and Huaqiao University from Mainland China.Career theme days highlight employment trendsCatering to the recruitment demands of various industries, the expo will feature four career theme days that highlight employment trends. On the Construction Progression Pathway theme today (15 July), the supporting organisation - the Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC) - invites its lecturers and graduates to discuss the manpower situation and current prospects within the industry, and introduce course details in areas such as painting and decorating, joinery, site surveying and welding. Virtual reality training equipment and students' work in electrical installation is also being showcased. The Electrical & Mechanical Engineering theme day tomorrow (16 July), co-organised by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group, will invite industry professionals to share on current and future prospects in the industry and introduce the popular Engineering Graduate Training Scheme and Technician Training Scheme.On the third day of the expo (17 July), the brand-new Skills theme, organised by the Vocational Training Council (VTC), invites several winners from the WorldSkills Competition to share their experience. Various seminars are being organised to enrich participants' knowledge on different skills, including interior design, wardrobe, jewellery and webpage development. On the last day of the expo (18 July), medical and healthcare professionals will share their work experience, the career pathway and job requirements during the Introduction to Healthcare and Medical Sector theme day.On-the-spot recruitment provides opportunities from various industriesThe Youth Zone gathers information on continuing education and career planning for young people. This year, representatives from the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups will introduce a range of popular courses such as floral design, barista skills, art therapy, speech therapy and STEM learning. Building Inspection is one of the highlights this year, with representatives sharing insider knowledge and details of career development in the industry, as well as interview tips for young candidates. In addition, information on the Working Holiday Scheme provided by various consulates can also be found at the expo, allowing young people to explore opportunities overseas.Meanwhile, this year's Recruitment Square will cooperate with various recruitment platforms, public organisations and private companies to offer more than 2,600 job opportunities during the expo. WHub, a Hong Kong start-up community platform, will work with nine local start-ups for on-site recruitment and there will also be a range of summer jobs and temporary internships on offer for younger people. In addition, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office of the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau will set up a booth to help young people explore opportunities for study, work and entrepreneurship arising from the development of the Greater Bay Area.Celebrities share practical tipsMore than 90 on-site events will be organised as part of the expo, including fire investigation dog performances, seminars on further education, career opportunities, immigration information, working holidays and management trainee programmes, and sharing sessions on working in the mainland. Various celebrities will also be offering their valuable experiences and insights.Jayden Lam, renowned DSE Chinese tutor, spoke earlier today and shared his tips on entering the tutoring industry and the future prospects it presents. Dominic Tong, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Physics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and guest host of the TVB programme Sidewalk Scientist, will share intriguing ways to understand physics to spur people's learning interest along with interesting thoughts on exploring potential on 16 July. The following day, Bonnie Wong, DJ from Commercial Radio Hong Kong, will talk about her career experience after graduation and how she made her dream come true by embracing the opportunity to become a TV and radio host. On the last day of the expo (18 July), Education expert Jeffrey Hui will advise participants on the strategies for studying in the UK and offer golden tips on how to put together a great CV.Expo website: https://hkeducationexpo.hktdc.com/Activity schedule: https://bit.ly/3wyG5vmPhoto download: https://qrgo.page.link/2ueysAbout HKTDCThe 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 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.Media enquiries:HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentChristine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

9 7 月, 2021

Renowned authors speak at HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair

HONG KONG, Jul 9, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The long-awaited 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair takes place from 14 to 20 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The theme of this year's Book Fair is "Inspirational and Motivational Reading" and one of the highlights will be the "Eight Seminar Series", offering inspiration and helping readers enjoy a trip around the literary world. The "Renowned Writers Seminar Series", co-organised with Mingpao and Yazhou Zhoukan, and the "English and International Reading Series" supported by Book Depository will invite renowned authors from around the globe to share their writing journeys with readers at a series of virtual and in-person seminars.The Renowned Writers Seminar Series will welcome Fan Jinshi, known as the "Daughter of Dunhuang", and Gu Chunfang, co-author of "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs: Biology of Fan Jinshi", to share Ms Fan's conservation endeavours in the Dunhuang region of Mainland China over the past five decades. In addition, author Ping Lu will share with readers how her two battles with cancer have taken her into previously unexplored areas in the realm of her creative writing. Other authors in the star-studded line-up include Liang Hong, Shuang Xuetao and Wei Hui from Mainland China and Cheng Pei-kai, Louis Ng, Xu Zidong, Ronald Soong and Zhou Jieru from Hong Kong.The "English and International Reading Series" invites renowned authors from around the globe to share their creative experiences. The line-up features Heather Morris, author of worldwide bestselling novels "The Tattooist of Auschwitz" and "Cilka's Journey"; renowned British broadcaster and writer Jeremy Vine; New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels "Brigid Kemmerer"; and other acclaimed authors such as Neil Gaiman, Julia Lovell, Peter Gordon, Juan Jose Morales, Gillian Bickley and Mark O'Neil. The international speakers will interact with Hong Kong literature lovers via video link, sharing the experiences behind their outstanding works and embarking on an inspirational journey together.Fan Jinshi - 50 years of heartfelt memories in DunhuangDuring her days at the Department of Archaeology at Peking University, Fan Jinshi visited Dunhuang, a city on the edge of the Gobi Desert in China's northwestern Gansu Province, for an internship. After graduation, she joined the Research Institute on Cultural Relics of Dunhuang to work as an archaeologist. For some 50 years she lived a routine life, dedicating herself to research work in the famous Mogao Caves. In an interview, she shared that: "I was used to entering the caves on a daily basis. As well as the darkness when I was inside, I also enjoyed the first beam of sunlight that shone into the cave every morning - I saw the Buddha on the murals blush slightly and give a slight smile." Ms Fan now identifies as a citizen of Dunhuang and dedicates her life to the city and its history.Fan Jinshi has made a far-reaching contribution to the development of Dunhuang. Her key research areas include the protection and management of the Mogao Caves and archaeological excavations conducted there. After 40 years of residing in the region, Ms Fan published the significant "Archaeological Report on Cave 266-275 of the Mogao Grottoes", for which she received widespread recognition and later garnered multiple awards. A lot of Ms Fan's Hong Kong readers are eagerly anticipating her sharing on the stories behind Dunhuang.In 2020, the publication of "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs: Biology of Fan Jinshi", written by Gu Chunfang, attracted a lot of public attention. Gu Chunfang and Fan Jinshi spent four years working together to write the archaeologist's autobiography. At the Book Fair, they will join via video link to guide readers through the heartfelt and intricate words of the biography and understand Ms Fan's enthusiasm for Dunhuang and its famous caves at a seminar titled "Dunhuang is Where My Heart Belongs".Ping Lu - learning to face up to fearBorn in Taiwan, Ping Lu is a graduate of the Department of Psychology at National Taiwan University and a master graduate from the University of Iowa. She has also gained a reputation as one of the most popular contemporary novelists in Mainland China. She has won numerous awards including the United Daily Best Fiction Award and the Best Prose Award and Best Script Award from the China Times. Her works are renowned for covering a wide range of topics, addressing cultural, social and gender issues, and her writing style is noteworthy for being gentle and precise at the same time.Although Ms Ping's name literally means "a flat pathway", becoming a successful writer has not always been a smooth journey. In 2018, a medical check-up revealed that the writer was suffering from lung cancer. "The Gaps", published in 2020, recorded her experiences and the changes in her thinking after twice having had cancer. In the face of a life-changing disease, she could not escape from the anxiety and her only choice was to embrace her nightmare. She stared fear directly in the face and realised that the greatest obstacle came from the stereotypes built up around illnesses, and cancer in particular.Ms Ping will talk on the topic "Gifts from the Gaps - For You the Suffering" at the Book Fair, sharing with the general public about what she learned during the journey of illness and hoping to enlighten those who are also suffering from pain and disease.Heather Morris - the art of listening in writing historical fictionNew Zealand-born Heather Morris is one of the renowned speakers taking part in the English and International Reading Series. A booklover since childhood, Ms Morris was always curious about the world, once saying that "you can escape from reality in an encyclopaedia and fly to a faraway land". She was always true to herself and followed her passion for storytelling, studying professional screenwriting in Australia in 1996. Her works have won wide acclaim and have even been adapted into Oscar-winning screenplays.In 2003, Ms Morris met a survivor of Auschwitz, the notorious World War 2 concentration camp, who worked in the camp as a tattooist. She recorded his story and pieced together the fragments of pain, suffering and hope into a powerful script that won international acclaim before being turned into her debut novel, "The Tattooist of Auschwitz". Along with her second novel, "Cilka's Journey", her books have sold more than 7 million copies worldwide. Ms Morris will talk via video link at the Book Fair on the theme "Writing & The Power of Listening", sharing on the importance of writers being able to listen.Jeremy Vine - investigations into war and human natureJeremy Vine is an English writer, broadcaster and journalist. He is best known as the host of a BBC Radio lunchtime programme for almost 20 years as well as impressing with in-depth interviews and reports related to politics and war. He has reported on the aftermath of wars in Africa, witnessing the carnage inflicted by the Eritrean-Ethiopian War and the Angolan Civil War. He was named Speech Broadcaster of the Year in 2005 and won a Sony Award for Interview of the Year in 2011 for his interview with Britain's then Prime Minister Gordon Brown during the 2010 general election.His experience witnessing the evils of war has provided him with a great deal of inspiration. Last year, Mr Vine published "The Diver and the Lover", a novel about two war-survivor sisters who lost their home and fled to Catalonia where they struggled to make a living, and thereafter their encounter with surrealist artist Salvador Dali that triggered a series of surprising events. The author actually saw a painting by Dali that deeply touched him and gave him the inspiration to write the story. Mr Vine will give a video talk titled "The Painting that Changed My Life", explaining the relationship between the painting and "The Diver and the Lover", and will also share his thoughts on war and humanity with the audience.Please visit the Event Schedule page (https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html) for more details of the Renowned Writers Seminar Series and the English and International Reading Series. Registration is free and open to the public.For enquiries about interviews with the seminar speakers, members of the media should email clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org. Please provide details of the interview format, proposed questions and contact information in the email.Seminar Series information and photo download: https://bit.ly/35WxcRDThe 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks- Hong Kong Book Fair: www.hkbookfair.com/en- Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: www.hkbookfair.com/hksportsleisureexpo/en- World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.comAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiriesHKTDC Communication & Public Affairs DepartmentSunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.orgClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

6 7 月, 2021

HKTDC Education & Careers Expo opens next week

HONG KONG, Jul 6, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 30th edition of the HKTDC Education & Careers Expo runs from 15 to 18 July (Thursday to Sunday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The event will run concurrently with the HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks, all taking place at the HKCEC.Speaking at a press conference held today, Sophia Chong, HKTDC Assistant Executive Director, said that the HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will provide a one-stop platform for education, further studies and career opportunities. This year's event runs concurrently with the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks, offering a diverse experience to the Hong Kong public.L-R: Amy Liu, Senior Assistant Executive Director, Vocational Training Council; Choi Yu Sing, Curriculum Director, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups; Sophia Chong, Assistant Executive Director, HKTDC; Stephen Mann, Assistant Director – Student & Curriculum Development, Hong Kong Institute of Construction; Ceci Ho, Engineer, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department; Kristy Yip, Corporate Partnership Analyst, WHubThe 30th HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will run from 15 to 18 July at the HKCEC. The picture shows a scene from the previous expo in 2019.Featuring two major sections - Careers and Education - the four-day fair will host 800 organisations representing 14 countries and regions, including educational institutions, professional associations, government departments, public organisations and private companies. Open to the public free of charge, the expo provides comprehensive information on education and job opportunities available in Hong Kong and overseas.Speaking at a press conference to announce details of the expo, Sophia Chong, HKTDC Assistant Executive Director, said: "As the pandemic gradually begins to ease, students and parents are starting to look ahead to plan their future study and career paths. This year, the Education & Careers Expo features several thematic zones covering further education, continuing studies and job opportunities. Students, parents and jobseekers should not miss this fun and informative event, which runs concurrently with the Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks to offer a diverse experience to the Hong Kong public."On-the-spot recruitment provides opportunities from various industriesCatering to the recruitment demands of various industries, the expo will feature four career theme days. On the Construction Progression Pathway theme day (15 July), the supporting organisation, the Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC), will invite its lecturers and graduates to discuss the manpower situation and current prospects within the industry. The Electrical & Mechanical Engineering theme day (16 July), co-organised by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group, will invite industry professionals to share on current and future prospects. On the third day of the expo (17 July), the brand-new theme of Skills, organised by the Vocational Training Council (VTC), aims to enrich participants' knowledge on different skills, such as interior design and webpage development. Medical and healthcare professionals will share their work experience, the career pathway and job requirements during the Introduction to Healthcare and Medical Sector theme day (18 July).In addition, various exhibitors, including the EMSD and Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, will provide the latest job market updates, prospects, career pathways and the distribution of positions in various industries, helping visitors to chart a new path forward in their working lives. Meanwhile, this year's Recruitment Square will cooperate with various recruitment platforms, public organisations and private companies to offer more than 2,600 job opportunities during the expo. The Hong Kong start-up community platform WHub will work with nine local start-ups for on-site recruitment and there will also be a range of summer jobs and temporary internships on offer for younger people.The Youth Zone will gather information on continuing education and career planning for those still at school. Professionals from the business, aviation, mechanical engineering and arts sectors will introduce the development opportunities and career prospects in their respective fields. This year, representatives from the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups will introduce a range popular courses, with Building Inspection as one of the highlights. They will share insider knowledge and career development in this industry, providing interview tips for young candidates. Information on the Working Holiday Scheme provided by various consulates can also be found at the expo, allowing young people to explore opportunities available overseas.Six education-themed zones highlight local and overseas opportunitiesSix educational zones will be set up at this year's expo. The Self-Betterment Zone is launched to help jobseekers get better prepared for life under the new normal, with a wide range of workshops and online courses to help young people discover their strengths. The Tertiary Academy Zone brings together universities and higher education institutions offering marticulation opportunities, including Hong Kong Shue Yan University and the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong. The Vocational and Professional Education Zone features the VTC, HKIC and Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, introducing a comprehensive range of pre-employment programmes. At the Continuing Education Zone, Wall Street English and EF Language offer self-enhancement programmes, while exhibitors in the Creative and Educational Support Services Zone provide practical tips for studying in the United States.The International Exchange Village also returns in 2021 to provide visitors with on-site consultation services for studying and working overseas. Participating consulate general offices and official bodies include Canada, the United States, Germany, Hungary and Russia.The expo's education theme days highlight studying in the United States (16 July), France (17 July) and Canada (18 July), with representatives from consulate general offices on hand to introduce the prerequisites for admission, application procedures, information on campus life and more. Visitors can also meet with representatives from various officially recognised bodies to get first-hand information on studying abroad. Participating institutions include Advantage Austria Hong Kong, Jinan University and Huaqiao University from Mainland China.90+ inspiring events offer practical tipsMore than 90 on-site events will be organised as part of the expo, including seminars on further education, career opportunities, immigration information, working holidays, management trainee programmes and sharing sessions on working in the mainland. Various celebrities will also be sharing their valuable insights:- Jayden Lam, renowned DSE Chinese tutor, shares his tips on entering the industry;- Dominic Tong, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Physics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and guest host of the TVB programme Sidewalk Scientist, shares intriguing ways to understand physics to spur people's learning interest;- Bonnie Wong, DJ from Commercial Radio Hong Kong, shares her career experience;- Education expert Jeffrey Hui shares learning strategies and how to plan a successful blueprint for a future in the UK.Expo website: https://hkeducationexpo.hktdc.com/Activity schedule: https://bit.ly/2TvAqsJPhoto download: https://bit.ly/2VcVN2nAbout HKTDCThe 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 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.Media enquiriesHKTDC Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentChristine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

24 6 月, 2021

31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair opens on 14 July

HONG KONG, Jun 24, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will run from 14 to 20 July (Wednesday to Tuesday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This year's event has received an enthusiastic response from participating organisations, with more than 700 exhibitors expected to deliver a wide selection of cultural activities and leisure experiences over the week of the fair, which runs together with the HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and the debut World of Snacks.Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said the Hong Kong Book Fair Cultural Events Advisory Panel has adopted the theme Inspirational and Motivational Reading for the 2021 HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, hoping that the event can encourage readers to seek out motivational books that can inspire a more positive lifestyle.Introducing highlights of this year's Book Fair at a press conference today are (from right) Hong Kong authors Rap Chan and Su Hei; Yau Lop-poon, Editor-in-Chief of Yazhou Zhoukan and member of the Hong Kong Book Fair 2021 Cultural Events Advisory Panel, Hong Kong Publishing Federation; Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director; Anita Wan, Chairperson, Hong Kong Publishing Professionals Society and Honorary Secretary, Hong Kong Publishing Federation; and Hong Kong author Shirley Loo.Two thematic exhibitions, Cherished Memories of the Children’s Paradise and The Dragon Never Dies - Bruce Lee @80, will showcase two precious collections of memorabilia at the Art Gallery at the HKCEC.During the fair period and the citywide Cultural July campaign, more than 600 online and offline cultural events will be organised, including thematic exhibitions at the Art Gallery at the HKCEC and seminars hosted by acclaimed writers, bringing the joy of reading to the whole city.Book Fair theme aims at nourishing mindsThe theme of this year's Book Fair is Inspirational and Motivational Reading, with the tagline "Reading the World: Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul". Benjamin Chau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: "The Hong Kong Book Fair Cultural Events Advisory Panel has picked this meaningful theme, with the hope that the fair can encourage readers to seek out motivational books that can inspire a more positive lifestyle. Running in tandem with the Book Fair, the Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks will showcase diverse lifestyle experiences and snacks from across the globe. Together, these three events can help people declutter their minds and live more rewarding and fulfilling lives."Thematic exhibitions present classic collectionsAligning with this year's Book Fair theme, the HKTDC will showcase a thematic exhibition, titled Words to Warm the Heart, at the Art Gallery outside Hall 3. The exhibition will introduce a number of inspirational authors and some of their selected works, including (in no particular order) A Nong, Cheng Kok-kong, Lee Chack-fan, Philemon Choi, Wu Yin-ching, Shirley Loo, Agnes Chan, Joseph Sung, Su Hei and Rap Chan. Precious memorabilia from the authors will be on display, including manuscripts, calligraphy artworks and souvenirs, helping readers to appreciate the writers' creative journeys from different perspectives.The Art Gallery will also feature a number of other exhibitions. Cherished Memories of the Children's Paradise will display rare copies and illustrations from different eras of the popular kids' magazine Children's Paradise. The Dragon Never Dies - Bruce Lee @80, organised with the support of the Bruce Lee Club, brings together Bruce Lee memorabilia from collectors, providing visitors with the opportunity to revisit some of the legendary kung fu star's iconic moments.Another exhibition, Hong Kong Palace Museum, will introduce the innovative approaches taken to showcase precious exhibits from the Palace Museum and other renowned institutions.Seminar Series promotes broad range of literatureThe "Eight Seminar Series" returns to the Book Fair in 2021, continuing to promote the joy of reading by exposing readers to authors and works from a diverse range of literary genres. The Renowned Writers Seminar Series, co-organised with Mingpao and Yazhou Zhoukan, makes a welcome return, while other featured series include Theme of the Year: "Inspiring the Mind and Refreshing the Soul", the English and International Reading Series, World of Knowledge, Children and Youth Reading, Spiritual Growth and Personal Development, Lifestyle and the Hong Kong Cultural and Historical Seminar Series. More details of the seminars and featured speakers can be found at https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html.Brand-new experiences at Sports and Leisure ExpoThis year's Sports and Leisure Expo will cover a broad range of sports and leisure brands, products and services. In addition to the 10 existing themes, the expo features the new Travel. Excursion zone, showcasing exciting outdoors activities such as diving, stand-up paddle-boarding, rock climbing and geo-tours. A range of free trials and demonstrations will be offered at the expo, including a lion dance performance run by the Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts Dragon and Lion Dance Association, a pickleball taster session from the Asia Elite Sports Association, and a speed stacking experience coordinated by the Hong Kong Sport Stacking Association. In addition, local rugby players Salom Yiu and Sham Wai-sum, freestyle football player Tony Ma and other Hong Kong sports stars will take part in a series of celebrity-sharing sessions and performances, livening up the expo with their impressive skills.Visitors who prefer more sedentary pursuits can participate in a series of activities such as photography workshops and table-top games. At the Discover Poland through Board Games activity, Aleksander Danda, Poland's Consul General in Hong Kong, will introduce traditional Polish table-top games and Polish culture through interactive game sessions.World of Snacks debuts with global selection of tasty treatsMaking its debut in 2021, the World of Snacks features six thematic zones: Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar, bringing together more than 1,000 popular treats from across the globe. International snacks on offer include prawn crackers delivered directly from Japan by HT Mall; famous Taiwan souvenir snacks HiWalk and PAH JI HUE` from Taiwan Gift Baskets; Chupa Chups Mega Chups limited edition, usually only available at airports, from Sweet Dreams by Heinemann; coconut candies from Yan Chim Kee; Chicago-style Garrett Popcorn; Minor Figures nitro cold brew latte; Eat Real sea salt hummus chips; Hart Sacha salted inchi; organic unsalted cashews; and a wide selection of natural, additive-free and highly nutritional snacks. Exciting activities include the lollipop bouquet workshop, handmade rock candies workshop and a taro pastry demonstration.The HKTDC Education and Careers Expo will be held at the HKCEC from 15 to 18 July, running in parallel with the Book Fair. Youngsters and jobseekers can access the latest useful information on education and career opportunities for their life planning at this one-stop event. Admission to the expo is free of charge.Incentive campaign to encourage vaccinationIn support of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's "Early Vaccination for All" campaign, a number of booths will offer various incentives to visitors who have been vaccinated, including book discounts and giveaways, cash vouchers and gifts. Additionally, the HKTDC will offer 35,000 free admissions to those who have been vaccinated. These will be made available in limited quotas every day of the fair on a first-come-first-served basis. Visitors can enjoy free admission by presenting their vaccination record. More details can be found on the Book Fair website or mobile app: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/Vaccination_en.Enhanced on-site hygiene measures ensure participants' safetyThe well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors will be the top concern at the Book Fair. Various preventive measures will be put in place, with all on-site staff and exhibitors required to present a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test result or a record of receiving two COVID-19 vaccination injections in order to enter the fairground. All visitors to the fair need to record their entry date and time using the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app or by filling out a record form. Eating, drinking and food tasting within the venue (including booth areas) are all prohibited except in designated eating areas. Other safety measures include setting up temperature-screening stations, providing hand sanitiser and disinfection items at multiple locations around the HKCEC, and stepping up cleaning and disinfection at the venue.To ensure a more even flow of visitors throughout the day, the HKTDC will introduce morning admission tickets, night admission tickets as well as a special re-entry promotion. Physical ticket sales will not be available at the fairground to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance's toll booths to gain entry. Please see below for more details of the ticketing arrangements.Cultural July and Cultural Journey OnlineAlongside the Book Fair, the HKTDC is collaborating with numerous cultural and educational institutions, libraries, museums, shopping malls, cafes and bookstores to organise a broad range of cultural events running from late June to end of July as part of the Cultural July - Joyful Summer Reading citywide campaign. The campaign promotes reading as a step to nurture the flourishing cultural movement in the city. The HKTDC has also allocated resources to set up a Cultural Journey Online webpage on the Book Fair website, offering various e-reading resources, seminars and exhibitions to help users deepen their cultural knowledge.Photo download: https://bit.ly/3zTIZ0MAbout the HKTDCThe 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 SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC Communication & Public Affairs DepartmentHong Kong Book FairSunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.orgClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgHong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of SnacksSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.orgEducation and Careers ExpoChristine Kam, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

11 6 月, 2021

Tech, innovation, growth markets key to business recovery: HKTDC to focus on 14th Five-Year Plan opportunities

HONG KONG, Jun 11, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - In the face of continuing challenges in the global economy resulting from the pandemic, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will focus on helping businesses capture opportunities in Mainland China and other markets, especially in sectors that can ride on opportunities arising from the mainland's "dual circulation" strategy and 14th Five-Year Plan, as well as industry developments in technology, healthcare and sustainability.In addition to promoting the city's overall advantages, services and products, the HKTDC will offer online and offline services for Hong Kong companies to speed up business expansion in the mainland market, using the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) as a bridgehead. It will also explore tripartite partnerships with mainland enterprises in overseas markets, especially the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).HKTDC Chairman Dr Peter Lam said that the past few years have been full of challenges, but the HKTDC will continue to work hard in helping businesses diversify and enhance their capabilities with sustainability and the adoption of technology and innovation as a core theme. He added that as parts of the world continue to tackle the pandemic while others are gradually recovering, Mainland China and its early recovery has been driving economic growth both internally and externally."We will create opportunities for businesses in both markets and industries. Apart from large-scale events, we will also strengthen our support and training services to help Hong Kong businesses capture opportunities arising from the mainland's 14th Five-Year Plan and 'dual circulation' strategy, taking the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as an entry point. As such, we just launched a GoGBA one-stop platform to support Hong Kong companies, and we will help them partner with mainland enterprises to tap international markets through the city's two-way platform," Dr Lam said.Market opportunities: the GBA and "Dual Circulation" strategyFollowing the launch of the GoGBA one-stop platform yesterday (10 June), the HKTDC is planning to organise SmartHK in Guangzhou on 8 December, highlighting the city's international networks and innovative professional services which are complementary to the Greater Bay Area development. Business matching meetings will be held to promote cooperation between mainland enterprises and Hong Kong services providers in the areas of finance, IT, infrastructure, design and more. A high-level mission led by senior government officials and commercial delegations will explore opportunities with their counterparts in the GBA.Chic HK will be held in Shenzhen from 10-12 December to promote quality Hong Kong brands, stylish designs and technology and innovation products. It will be held in an online-to-offline format, allowing consumers to make purchases on the spot or online. A business mission will be held concurrently to connect Hong Kong traders with potential mainland buyers and partners, helping them to expand their nationwide retail networks.The HKTDC will also introduce a new Star CEOs seminar series in which the top management of major mainland and overseas enterprises will share how the city's international business platform and professional services helps mainland companies tap opportunities in global markets, hoping this will attract more mainland companies to set up offices in Hong Kong. The HKTDC will set up a Hong Kong Pavilion in selected mainland trade fairs such as the China International Import Expo where Hong Kong's role in facilitating merchandise and service trade between the mainland and the rest of the world will be highlighted.High-potential sectors: technology, healthcare and intellectual propertyThe 14th Five-Year Plan supports Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its competitive advantages. In addition to the traditional sectors such as finance, maritime and trading, it also supports the city to develop into an international innovation and technology hub and a regional intellectual property (IP) trading centre.As such, the HKTDC will also launch a new Innotech Starter Programme in partnership with government agencies, incubators, R&D centres and universities to provide support and create opportunities for start-ups that are interested in expanding business in the Greater Bay Area. The HKTDC is also planning to organise seminars in Guangzhou, Nanjing and Beijing to promote Hong Kong's IP solutions in technology and innovation, as well as IP trade-related services. It will also further enrich the content of Asia IP Exchange and encourage different industries to step up adoption of homegrown innovative technology, especially patented technologies in environmental protection, sustainability, healthcare and well-being, building and construction and more.Besides, demand for healthcare services is growing in Asia. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong is now the world's second-largest bio-tech fund-raising centre through initial public offerings. Together with a sound IP protection regime and a wealth of experts in commercialising innovations, the city is ready to become a healthcare innovation and investment hub. The HKSAR Government and the HKTDC will jointly organise the inaugural Asia Summit on Global Health on 24 November to attract investment, publicise the city's technology-related achievements and promote collaboration among industry players from Mainland China, Hong Kong and overseas.Focusing on biotechnology, medical devices and drugs, digital health, community health and wellness, the Summit will help participants connect with investors and leading bio-tech companies in the Greater Bay Area.About HKTDCThe 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn.Media ContactHKTDC Communications and Public Affairs DepartmentBeatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.orgSusanna Sin, Tel: +852 2584 4294, Email: susanna.kc.sin@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)