Hong Kong hosts world's largest stem cell convention, first in Asia in 13 years

Over 2,400 top-tier researchers and experts in stem cell research and regenerative medicine from 58 countries and regions have gathered in Hong Kong for the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) 2025 Annual Meeting.

This marked the first time that the world’s largest convention in the field was held in Hong Kong, which also became the first city chosen to host this annual event in Asia after a 13-year hiatus.

The four-day event, which opened Wednesday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, brings together pioneers from North America, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, mainland China and Hong Kong to share breakthroughs in cell therapies, disease research and regenerative medicine.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) played a pivotal role in securing the prestigious event, collaborating with Hong Kong Convention Ambassadors from the University of Hong Kong, the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. 

“The ISSCR Annual Meeting is one of the most significant academic conventions in medical science, and Hong Kong’s selection as host underscores our city’s status as the ‘World’s Meeting Place’,” said HKTB chairman Peter Lam Kin-ngok.

He credited the Convention Ambassadors for leveraging their networks to make the event possible and noted their expanding role in attracting major conferences to the city.

ISSCR President Valentina Greco praised Hong Kong as an ideal crossroads for global collaboration.

“As a vibrant research hub at the crossroads of Asia and the world, Hong Kong offers an ideal setting to connect diverse scientific communities, spark new collaborations, and accelerate innovation,” she said.

The conference features plenary sessions, award lectures and innovation showcases, with HKTB providing logistical support, including venue coordination and sponsor outreach.

The event is one of 76 international conventions facilitated by the HKTB from 2025 to 2027, expected to attract over 180,000 high-value business visitors.

Of those, 27 were secured through the HKTB’s Convention Ambassadors initiative, which has grown to a record 180 members from business, academia and professional sectors.

Notable first-time events in Hong Kong include the IEEE Electron Devices Technology and Manufacturing Conference held in March, the upcoming Routes World aviation summit in September and the World Cancer Congress scheduled for 2026. 

(Ayra Wang)