Hong Kong Food Expo Opens with Focus on Wellness and Global Trade

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) opened its 36th Food Expo alongside the Beauty & Wellness Expo and Home Delights Expo at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Running from August 13 to 17, the fairs bring together more than 1,850 exhibitors from over 30 countries and regions, creating a vibrant marketplace spanning food, tea, home living, beauty, and wellness sectors. The central theme, 'Live Well. Stay Well,' reflects a growing global focus on health and quality living.

Dr. Jonathan Choi, HKTDC Council Member, highlighted the significance of the event: 'Today, wellness has become an integral part of everyday life. It is reflected in the food and beverages we enjoy, the way we care for our home and how we nurture our physical and mental well-being.' The fairs are designed to offer a wide range of products and experiences that support healthier, happier, and more balanced lifestyles.

The event is not just a consumer showcase but also a critical business platform. Sophia Chong, HKTDC Executive Director, noted, 'As an international business centre and a key food trading hub in the region, Hong Kong has long served as a platform for global food and catering enterprises seeking to expand into the Chinese Mainland, Asia and international markets.' Through the Food Expo PRO, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine & Health Products (ICMCM), and other industry exchange platforms, the HKTDC fosters cross-border and cross-sector collaboration, strengthening Hong Kong's role as a bridge between the Chinese Mainland and global markets.

The fairs feature five themed days, each focusing on different aspects of wellness and global flavors. 'Happy Eat Happy Life' on August 13 promotes balanced nutrition with wellness products like cistanche health drinks, ready-to-eat bird's nest, and organic dried blueberries. 'The World in Blink' on August 14 showcases international delicacies, including honey from South Africa and chocolates served by Finnair. 'Coffee or Tea?' on August 15 highlights coffee and tea innovations, including a new Matcha Pavilion and Yixing Zisha Teaware Pavilion. 'Stay Fresh, Stay Ahead' on August 16 focuses on premium fresh produce, with the debut of 'Hong Kong Harvest' brand and a Gourmet Zone featuring 15 star chefs. Finally, 'Let's Chill' on August 17 introduces a 'Stay Relax' zone and a new Dessert and Gelato Theme.

For trade visitors, Food Expo PRO introduces a new 'Meat Zone' and a 'Food Science and Technology Zone' focusing on alternative and future foods. It also debuts pet food products, addressing the growing pet economy. Halal food offerings have expanded, with over 130 exhibitors participating, making it easier for buyers to source halal-certified products.

The ICMCM conference, expanded to three days, focuses on the theme 'Clinical Translation, Regulatory Policies and Global Innovative Pathways of Traditional Medicine.' It brings together over 30 experts from around the world to discuss Chinese medicine research, regulatory trends, and industry practices, supporting Hong Kong's role in this sector.

To celebrate HKTDC's 60th anniversary, special promotions and consumer offers are available, including free admission before noon for the first 600 visitors daily and various '6'-themed deals. Visitors can also participate in lucky draws and mini games with prizes worth over HK$1 million. The 'August Happy Buy' campaign website (https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/food/tabs/home) offers additional savings and flash sales.

The fairs are open to the public with tickets priced at HK$30 for a single fair and HK$40 for combo tickets, with pre-sale discounts. E-tickets are available through various platforms, and morning and evening admission tickets offer reduced rates. The event underscores Hong Kong's position as a global hub for food trade and wellness trends, benefiting both consumers and businesses.