The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) invited our members to attend the HKTDC DesignInspire, which was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 5 - 7 December 2024.
The Expo brought together innovative local and global elites offering top-class design objects and projects. A wide range of services and innovative ideas was showcased at the expo to create unique business opportunities and partnerships, including:
GLOBAL Design excellence from around the world
DESIGN Creative solutions and design services
INNOVATE Thematic art-tech experience
BRAND Creativities and design concepts of brands
AWARD The best of the best designs presented by award organisers
ACADEMY Power of the new generation of creative elites showcased by design institutes
SHOP Retail platform promoting the limited and deluxe edition pieces
HIGHLIGHT Maison&Objet Design Factory
This year, Maison&Objet (M&O), the world-leading trade show for lifestyle, decoration, and design professionals that originated in France, debuted the “Maison&Objet Design Factory” at DesignInspire 2024, marking M&O’s premier presence in Asia. The M&O Design Factory consisted of five meticulously curated themed zones on the latest design trends, exquisite craftsmanship, material sourcing, better living solutions, and innovative design pieces, offering trend-setting, engaging, and thriving discussions for trade.
Additionally, the Business of Design Week (BODW), Asia’s world-class design event honoured with the presence of renowned designers and brand owners to drive discourse on the value of design and innovation, together with the Business of IP Asia Forum and Entrepreneur Day, was held concurrently with DesignInspire 2024.
DesignInspire, the anchor design expo, definitely helped us source innovative and creative solutions for business upgrading, such as trend-setting spatial design services and designer furniture for gallery showcases.
Entering a new decade of the Belt and Road Initiative, the digital "Silk Road" was poised to scale new heights, with innovation and transformation in cross-border payments being the key to expanding cooperation among BRI partner economies. To harness the opportunities brought by the digital era, the Belt and Road Forum themed “Digital Economy & Payment Settlement” was held on December 5, 2024, at Conrad Hong Kong.
The Ng Teng Fong· Sino Group Belt and Road Research Institute of the Hong Kong Chu Hai College, the Silk Road Economic Development Research Center, and the Maritime Silk Road Society jointly hosted the “Belt and Road Forum 2024 · Digital Economy & Payment Settlement” with the following details:
- Date: 5th December 2024 (Thursday)
- Time: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
- Venue: Conrad Hong Kong, Admiralty, Hong Kong
- Language: English
- No. of audience: 250
- Opening remarks: The Hon John KC LEE, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- Welcoming remarks: Mrs. Regina Ip, Co-Chair, Maritime Silk Road Society
- Keynote speech: Prof. Yong Shi, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences; Director of CAS Research Center on Fictitious Economy & Data Science
- Panel discussions:
- “Cross-Border Payments Fueling the Accelerated Growth of Global E-Commerce”
- “The Development and Implementation of Web 3.0 in Hong Kong”
- Votes of Thanks: Mr. Lam Kwong Siu, Chairman, Board of Governors, Hong Kong Chu Hai College
The organizers consistently held BRI forums on specialized topics related to global BRI development trends since 2017, with participation from former Chief Executives of the HKSAR. This year, the Belt and Road Forum Committee was honoured to have the Hon John KC LEE, the Chief Executive of the HKSAR, participating in this annual event. Our presence was greatly appreciated among 300 distinguished guests, including prominent business leaders from Hong Kong, mainland China, and overseas, Consul-Generals, government officials, entrepreneurs, and academics.
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) had invited our members to attend the Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference (ALMAC), which had been scheduled to be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on 18-19 November 2024.
ALMAC had become an international flagship supply chain event, bringing together stakeholders along the supply chains, including air freight, maritime and logistics services providers, as well as shippers, including brands, manufacturers, traders, and distributors from around the world to exchange market intelligence and explore business opportunities.
ALMAC 2024 had aimed to examine the megatrends in global trade and supply chains, and how supply chain transformation, new trade line exploration, innovation and technology, and sustainability had been crucial in solidifying future-ready businesses and capturing emerging opportunities. A series of thematic tracks focusing on air freight, maritime, and supply chain management, as well as an exhibition featuring logtech and supply chain solutions, had been staged to showcase the trending issues and developments for the industry.
The Hon John KC LEE, GBM, SBS, PDSM, PMSM, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, delivered his third Policy Address to the Legislative Council in October.
We were deeply honoured that Mr. Lee accepted our invitation to speak to the Hong Kong business community on 7 November.
Attendees had the opportunity to hear Mr. Lee explain his priorities for the Policy Address and learned more about his initiatives to tackle critical issues pertaining to Hong Kong’s future development. These included consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an international financial, shipping, and trade centre amid economic restructuring and geopolitical changes, enhancing integration into national development for new opportunities, and fostering the growth of innovation and technology by attracting capital and talent.
As the world's leading electronics marketplace, HKTDC brought together over 3,200 exhibitors from all corners of the globe at the Fair in 2023. They returned with a stronger presence this year, showcasing cutting-edge technologies to create an unforgettable electronics extravaganza; the two fairs provided perfect sourcing opportunities not to be missed.
Members of the Hong Kong-Thailand Business Council were cordially invited to join these fairs to discover pioneering electronic gadgets, the latest trends in smart mobility, and ground-breaking innovations with sustainable solutions, which were held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 13-16 October 2024.
Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition)
Highlights: A World of Leading Innovative Electronics Products
- Gadget Universe (Audio & Visual Products, Personal Electronics)
- Connected Lifestyle (Smart Home, Beauty/Healthcare Electronics, Wearables)
- In-Vehicle Tech (Automotive & In-Vehicle Electronics, Energy Storage)
- Entertainment & Living (Computing & Gaming, Smart Living)
- Essential Accessories & Mobiles
- Office Automation and more...
electronicAsia
Highlights: A World of Electronic Components and Technologies
- Keyboard & Switches
- Printed Circuit Boards & EMS
- Display Technology
- Power Supplies
- Wireless & Sensor Technology and more...
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government today (July 1) warmly welcomes and expresses gratitude to the country for announcing that non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents will soon be eligible for a card-type document (Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese Citizens)) to enhance convenience of clearance at control points of the Mainland, facilitating their visit to the Mainland for business, travelling, and visiting relatives. The Exit and Entry Administration of the country will start issuing the card on July 10.
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said, "At this important moment when Hong Kong residents celebrate together our return to the motherland, I am grateful for the Central Government for introducing the measure in support of Hong Kong again, which demonstrates our country's care and support for the HKSAR all along. Under the new measure, individuals holding the card will be able to enjoy self-service clearance at control points of the Mainland, significantly enhancing clearance efficiency.
"Many non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents have deep roots in Hong Kong. They have been working diligently and making significant contributions to the development of Hong Kong. Among them, foreign talent working in Hong Kong are particularly keen to better seize the historic opportunities of our country's rapid developments, especially envisioning greater involvement in the building of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) as a world-class bay area. We firmly believe that international talent of Hong Kong companies can enjoy the long-awaited clearance convenience for northbound travel with this card. This measure is not limited to any nationality or industry, which fully highlights Hong Kong's unique status under 'one country, two systems' and greatly helps Hong Kong maintain its international character and diversity, thereby providing a significant incentive for companies and talent from around the world to settle in Hong Kong," he said.
Under the new measure, all non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents will be able to make applications to the China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Limited entrusted by the Exit and Entry Administration of the country for travelling to the Mainland multiple times within a five-year validity period (with a stay not exceeding 90 days for each visit), without the need to apply for a separate visa to enter the Mainland. The application, approval, and issuance of this card fall within the remit of the Mainland authorities. This facilitation arrangement complements the "northbound" multiple-entry visa initiative as announced by the Chief Executive in the 2023 Policy Address, meeting the aspirations of various sectors of the Hong Kong community on all fronts.
To dovetail with the country's efforts in building a high-level talent hub, the HKSAR Government has been maintaining close communication with the Mainland authorities, striving to promote the "southbound and northbound" two-way flow of talent, and has received positive responses from the Mainland. Since early 2023, the Mainland has successively introduced measures to promote the "southbound and northbound" flow, including launching and expanding the GBA “southbound” exit endorsement for talent to Beijing and Shanghai, extending the duration of stay in Hong Kong of the exit endorsement for business visit from seven days to 14 days, and introducing the "northbound" multiple-entry visa. These measures have greatly facilitated the two-way flow of talent. The HKSAR will certainly make good use of these measures, proactively playing the special role and carrying out the mission endowed by "one country, two systems", telling the good stories of Hong Kong, and making even greater contributions to the development of the country.
Ends/Monday, July 1, 2024
Issued at HKT 10:37
For more details, kindly visit the webpage at
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202407/01/P2024070100182.htm?fontSize=1
The fourth Asia Summit on Global Health on 16-17 May 2024 in Hong Kong, an event focused on health innovation and investment in Asia jointly organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).
In recent years, global health issues such as ageing population, novel infectious diseases and climate-related health threats have led to increased awareness and greater emphasis on concerted efforts in enhancing healthcare and the need for innovation to build a more healthy and sustainable future. In Asia, the tremendous demand for healthcare, coupled with its emerging role as an innovation hub, points to the region’s growing significance in the global health landscape.
Since its launch in 2021, the Summit has developed into a signature event for the healthcare industry in the region. The Summit in May 2023 brought together more than 90 internationally renowned speakers and 2,500 participants from 40 countries and regions. More than 300 one-on-one deal-making meetings were arranged during the Summit and discussions on potential deals are being followed up by the HKTDC team.
The third International Healthcare Week organised from 15-31 May 2024 to solidify Hong Kong’s role as an innovation and investment hub for global healthcare. As anchor events under the Week, the Asia Summit on Global Health and HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair will be staged concurrently highlighting Hong Kong's strengths in the healthcare sector.
Themed “Innovation．Inclusion．Impact”, the 2024 Summit will bring together policy makers, healthcare experts, business leaders, start-ups and investors from around the world to exchange insights and explore opportunities for collaboration. It will comprise a high-level symposium covering a wide range of topics on global health, healthcare innovations and investment opportunities in healthcare in Asia. A series of thematic sessions focusing on the latest trends in different medical sectors, project pitching and deal-making meetings will also be organised to facilitate business discussions and investment partnerships. InnoHealth Showcase, a dedicated exhibition area for start-ups featuring global healthcare projects and technologies will be staged alongside the Summit.
The Business of IP Asia Forum took place on 5-6 December 2024, focusing on "Reimagining IP for Impact and Growth."
Jointly organised by the HKSAR Government and HKTDC, the Business of IP Asia Forum was an annual flagship event for intellectual property (IP) policymakers, owners, users, investors, and professionals to exchange thought leadership and market trends, as well as explore business opportunities in Asia and beyond. The 2023 edition attracted more than 90 prominent speakers and 2,500 participants from 35 countries and regions.
The 14th edition of the BIP Asia Forum was held on 5-6 December 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Under the theme of “Reimagining IP for Impact and Growth,” it examined the immense potential of IP in nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship, and driving impactful economic and social development on a global scale.
The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) and the 2024 International Trade and Economic Globalization Forum, hosted by the Global Trade Development Federation, took place on November 8, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hall C2 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. Held during the China International Import Expo, this forum focused on key topics such as international trade, economic collaboration, and resource integration, with the aim of fostering strategic cooperation and innovative development among global enterprises.
Forum Highlights
Official Inauguration of the Global Chamber of Commerce Federation
During the forum, the Global Chamber of Commerce Federation was officially inaugurated. As a non-profit organization headquartered in Hong Kong, the Federation aimed to integrate resources from national chamber associations across the globe, breaking down regional and sectoral barriers to provide seamless international trade opportunities and comprehensive services to global enterprises. The establishment of the Federation offered a unique platform for global chamber associations to foster international trade exchanges and cooperation, as well as provide services such as investment promotion, trade facilitation, and commercial legal support. Participants gained access to the latest market information and policy support, promoting the integration and sharing of global resources. One of the core topics of this forum was to deepen the involvement of global enterprises in international economic governance. By facilitating dialogue with governments, chamber associations, and international organizations, the forum aimed to promote reforms and innovations in economic governance systems, ensuring fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in the global economy.
Forum Services and Support
Global Chamber Cooperation Platform
The Global Chamber Federation established an International Trade Services Center as a platform to provide a unique cooperation mechanism for national chamber associations, promoting the implementation of international trade policies and helping businesses overcome market barriers. This enhanced their ability to expand globally. Through the Federation's global network, enterprises had the opportunity to engage in deep cooperation with industry leaders and top companies worldwide.
Global Resource Integration and Supply Chain Optimization
The forum also explored ways to optimize supply chains and promote the sharing of global resources, helping businesses improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain competitive advantages in global markets. The Federation provided a comprehensive range of services, including market access, investment facilitation, and international certification support.
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) was dedicated to promoting and upholding cyber security in various industries. Co-organised with local IT organisations, the Cyber Security Summit (the Summit) was one of HKPC’s regional flagship events. Marking its 21st year since 2003, this extraordinary Summit aimed to provide participants with the latest information security trends and developments focused on the Asia-Pacific region. It served as a platform to bridge the prestigious global network and strengthen connections among participants, as well as foster a community within the cyber security industry. Your support was a tremendous success for the Summit.
This year, the Summit was scheduled to take place on 23 - 24 October 2024 (Wednesday - Thursday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the theme of “Cyber Security Fortification – The AI Paradox.” The Summit gathered local and overseas experts to share experiences and knowledge in information security, including emerging technologies, legislation, regulations, privacy, and compliance, through free-admission conferences and technical workshops. Enterprises found ways to enhance their cyber security awareness and guard against cyber security challenges in the emerging AI world.
HKTDC introduced the September Lifestyle Fairs (3-7 Sept 2024), a vibrant showcase of the latest trends in fashion and watches. HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, the world’s largest marketplace for timepieces, has showcased a vast array of watches and clocks, including complete watches, OEM smartwatches, clocks, and their components. Its prestigious brand name gallery, Salon de TIME, has enriched the appeal by presenting exclusive watch brands and distinctive designs from around the world. Last year’s events have featured 711 exhibitors and have attracted nearly 15,000 buyers from 95 countries and regions; it has been expected that the business atmosphere will be more vibrant in the coming September edition. Concurrently, CENTRESTAGE, Asia’s premium fashion event, has hosted around 250 local and international fashion brands, unveiling their latest collections and creative designs. This year, the new thematic zone at the fair has revolved around athleisure and circular fashion, introducing a more dynamic atmosphere.
These events have been open to the public, offering special deals on the latest collections from watchmakers and fashion brands and a series of engaging experiences, including fashion shows, watch parades, talks about watch appreciation, styling workshops, and social media-friendly photo ops.
Starting from 10 July 2024, non-Chinese passport holders who are Hong Kong permanent residents are now eligible to apply for Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese Citizens).
Highlights of this permit:
- fast and convenient access via the electronic channels at Chinese immigration
- multiple entry to the Mainland
- validity of five years
- up to 90 days per trip
This initiative aims to streamline clearance procedures at Mainland control points for permanent Hong Kong residents of foreign nationality, and facilitate their business trips, travel, and visits to relatives in the Mainland.
For your convenience, we have provided helpful links for the application process:
Step 1: Obtain the "Notice of Application for Access to Information" from the Immigration Department online:
https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/immigration/records/onlineaccessinfo.htm
Step 2: Schedule an appointment with the designated agent (CTSHK):
https://www.ctshk.com/pass/nrep/bookterms.jsp
*Please note that APEC Card holders may also apply.*
