A Global Showcase with Business Opportunities under Reduced Liquor Duty
HONG KONG, October 21, 2024 – The 16th HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair is set to take place from November 7-9 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The fair will feature a wide array of fine wines, spirits, and related products from around the world, attracting trade visitors and buyers.
Business Opportunities Flourish with Reduced Liquor Duty
With Hong Kong recently reducing its liquor duty rate to stimulate the wine and spirits industry, as announced in the latest Policy Address, the Fair offers businesses the chance to capitalize on this favorable new measure.
Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), emphasized the importance of this year’s event: “As consumer tastes grow increasingly sophisticated, the Wine & Spirits Fair showcases an extensive selection of wines and spirits while promoting wine knowledge through various special events. The participation from Mainland China has surged by 60%, underscoring the growing global market for Chinese baijiu and wines. Hong Kong is further cementing its position as a regional trading hub for the wine and spirits industry.”
Over 600 Exhibitors from 20 Countries and Regions
This year’s Fair will feature over 600 exhibitors from 20 countries, including notable participation from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and various international markets. Exhibitors from Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Africa will present their finest products.
Countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Argentina, Chile, and South Africa, which is participating for the first time, are among the highlights. Japan and the Philippines will showcase their respective spirits, with Ireland and Japan pavilions set to feature a variety of whiskies.
A Global Showcase for Exquisite Wines and Spirits
The Fair will offer a wide range of wines and spirits, including both old-world and new-world varieties. Some highlights include:
- Azienda Agricola Sciara 760 Metri Etna Rosso: Crafted by Stef Yim, the first Hong Kong winemaker to establish a vineyard on Sicily’s Mount Etna.
- Zhenjiu: A high-end baijiu from Guizhou, known for its rich flavor profile.
- Clonakilty Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey: A triple-distilled whiskey matured on the Atlantic coastline, boasting flavors of vanilla, toffee, and salted caramel.
- Wabi Sabi Gin: Created by pioneering Japanese entrepreneur Wakae, this gin features 13 botanicals for a complex flavor.
Exploring Market Trends Through Special Events
The Fair will host numerous conferences, tastings, and seminars led by Masters of Wine, sommeliers, and industry experts. Highlights include the inaugural Sommelier’s Picks, where renowned sommeliers Arnaud Bardary MS, Carlito Chiu, and Reeze Choi will share their favorite wine lists with both industry professionals and the public.
In addition, Master of Wine Debra Meiburg will lead a wine industry conference on consumption trends among Generation Z and millennials, while Jennifer Docherty MW will offer insights into blind-tasting fine wines. Seminars will also cover the outlook for Hong Kong’s spirits market, led by wine critic Lau Chi Sun.
Competitions and Awards at the Fair
Attendees can look forward to various competitions and award ceremonies, including:
- Cathay Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition 2024
- Washu Awards 2024
- Hong Kong Best Spirits Awards 2024
- WineLuxe’s Top 10 Wine Pairing Restaurant Awards 2024
- Hong Kong International Mixology Showdown 2024
Public Day: A Celebration for Wine Enthusiasts
On November 9, the Fair’s Public Day will welcome wine lovers to enjoy tastings and purchase a range of wines and spirits. Regular tickets are priced at HK$200, while discounted tickets are available for HK$99 starting October 23. Special ticket holders will also receive a Lucaris crystal wine glass and discounts on Hong Kong Airlines tickets.
Among the many activities, the Wine Fiesta Zone will feature a sparkling wine seminar hosted by Debra Meiburg, and Stef Yim will share his journey as Hong Kong’s first “Volcano Winemaker.” Additionally, a special cocktail, “HK & Suit,” will be available at the HKTDC x LKF Cocktail Festival within the Zone.
For more information and ticketing, visit HKTDC Wine & Spirits Fair.
