The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) announced the successful conclusion of its five major fairs – Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, Home Delights Expo, Food Expo PRO, and Hong Kong International Tea Fair – which together attracted over 520,000 public visits, setting an all-time record. The events, held from August 15 to 17, brought together more than 1,850 exhibitors from over 30 countries and regions, showcasing a vast array of gourmet food, wellness products, and quality home goods.
Per capita spending at the public fairs reached a record high of HK$1,685, reflecting robust consumer sentiment. According to a survey conducted by the organiser, 87% of respondents said their actual spending met or exceeded their budget. The fairs also tapped into the growing health and wellness trend, with over 80% of visitors expressing interest in health-related products. Among the most sought-after categories were health and functional foods (62%), health supplements and nutritional products (51%), and mental and physical wellness products (40%).
Smilely Lam, Associate Executive Director of HKTDC, noted the fairs' success in connecting global exhibitors with local and international buyers. She highlighted the growing demand for health and functional products, convenience foods, specialty foods, and premium teas, as well as the increasing popularity of sustainable and Halal-certified products. "The fairs, themed 'Live Well · Stay Well,' comprehensively showcased the latest trends in the health and wellness sector, creating more business opportunities for the industry," Lam said.
The trade fairs Food Expo PRO and Hong Kong International Tea Fair drew some 20,000 buyers from 64 countries and regions, reinforcing Hong Kong's position as a food trading hub. Notably, the Korea Pavilion expanded by 40% to become the largest overseas pavilion, with over 130 exhibitors. The HKTDC also signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Agro-fisheries & Food Trade Corporation to strengthen cooperation.
Mainland Chinese enterprises leveraged the expo to expand overseas, with the fourth consecutive 'Going Global' exchange and matchmaking event recording intended transactions exceeding HK$1.8 billion. The Xizang Pavilion made its debut and signed a deal with a Hong Kong importer for cordyceps, with an estimated annual cooperation value exceeding RMB100 million. Henan Yunong Youpin Operation Management, following a Central Asia business delegation, connected with Kazakhstan entities to establish an agricultural industrial park.
Innovation was a key theme, with the 'Food Science and Technology Zone' featuring pet food solutions that attracted strong interest. Felix Cheung, CEO of IXON Food Technology, reported receiving enquiries from over 200 buyers on the first day, with potential business value estimated between US$500,000 and US$1.3 million. The 'Coffee Zone' also highlighted market growth, with the Hawaii Coffee Association connecting with more than 100 buyers.
The Hong Kong International Tea Fair introduced a new 'Tea Lifestyle' zone and a Chinese Mainland Matcha Pavilion. BASAO, a local tea brand, conducted around 30 business meetings with buyers from Thailand, Japan, and Egypt. The Kenya Pavilion reported potential deals exceeding US$10 million, and the Tea Board of Kenya signed an MOU with HKTDC.
The fairs continued the hybrid 'EXHIBITION+' model, allowing online negotiations via the 'Click2Match' platform until August 22. Additionally, the International Conference on the Modernization of Chinese Medicine & Health Products, held concurrently, attracted over 30 experts from 11 countries and regions to discuss regulatory policies and global pathways for traditional medicine.
The record attendance and spending underscore the vibrancy of Hong Kong's consumer market and its role as a gateway for international trade. The success of these fairs highlights the growing importance of health and wellness in consumer preferences, driving innovation and business opportunities across the industry.
