The highly anticipated Hong Kong Brands and Products Shopping Festival opened on Friday at AsiaWorld-Expo, offering four days of shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
Featuring eight themed zones and 300 booths, the event showcases thousands of products, from daily essentials to specialty goods, alongside live performances and interactive activities.
Running from 10am to 7pm daily (with an early 5.30pm closing on the final day), the festival charges a HK$10 admission fee, though children, seniors aged 65 or above, and individuals with disabilities enjoy free entry. To enhance accessibility, three complimentary shuttle bus routes are available for visitors.
New zones highlight regional flavors and nostalgic Hong Kong culture
This year’s expo introduces two fresh attractions: the "Hometown Flavors Zone", promoting specialty foods from 10 mainland Chinese provinces, and the "Lai Yuen Playground Zone", reviving retro Hong Kong culture with classic games and treats.
Wingco Lo Kam-wing, President of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong , emphasized the event’s role in boosting local consumption and supporting businesses.
"Amid challenges in global trade and retail transformation, this festival not only promotes Hong Kong brands but also serves as a springboard for local and mainland enterprises to expand their reach," he said, urging innovation to seize market opportunities.
Tourism recovery brings retail opportunities
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah highlighted the retail sector’s rebound, crediting tourism revival as a key driver.
He said visitor numbers have surged over the past year, creating encouraging business prospects. He also noted that the government plans to further leverage Hong Kong’s status as an international travel hub to attract more tourists and revitalize retail.
Yau, meanwhile, urged businesses to strengthen branding and competitiveness to navigate market challenges.
The festival runs until August 4 at AsiaWorld-Expo.
(Marco Lam)
