The Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair Is Round the Corner

The HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair opens its doors on 7 November 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year it's going to be huge.

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Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, Jennifer Docherty, MW, Sommelier Reeze Choi at HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair press conference
Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, Jennifer Docherty, MW, Sommelier Reeze Choi at HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair press conference

Now in its 16th edition, the HKTDC Wine & Spirits Fair takes place amidst challenges such as declining wine imports, shifting consumer preferences, and slower economic growth in China. Despite these hurdles, the fair’s organisers remain optimistic about its potential.

“To cater to consumers' more sophisticated and diverse appreciation for wines, this year's Wine & Spirits Fair offers a diverse range of wines and spirits from around the world to enhance the tasting experience and promote knowledge of wine through a series of special events,” said Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, during yesterday’s press conference. “The HKTDC is actively recruiting more buyers to take part in the fair, further promoting Hong Kong as a regional trading hub for wine and spirits,“ she continued.

One of the things that makes this fair so unique and dynamic, is that the Hong Kong government is actively involved and they are extremely keen to facilitate business. This makes it one of the easiest places to get things done in the world.

Global Exhibitor Line-Up

Exhibitors from Mainland China have increased their presence by 60% year-on-year. And there will be a huge number of participating countries on the floor, including Belarus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom, as well as many other European countries. The Americas are represented by Argentina, Canada, Chile, Mexico, and the United States. Australia, Japan, and the Philippines comprise the Asia-Pacific representation, with South Africa joining for the first time.

German Pavilion

Germany will be represented by 13 exhibitors at the fair. The German Pavilion is organized by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL).

“This collective presentation underscores Germany's commitment to expanding its presence in the Asian wine market. Hong Kong serves as a strategic entry point for German wines into the diverse and rapidly growing Asian market,” said Manuela Liebchen, Marketing Manager Asia at the German Wine Institute.

The German Wine Institute will also host several educational sessions at the German Pavilion, focusing on emerging trends, wine classifications, and key varieties such as Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and Riesling. These sessions are open to all attendees without prior registration.

Educational program

The Fair will feature educational sessions, including the inaugural ‘Sommelier’s Picks’, where sommeliers will share their favorite wine selections. Debra Meiburg MW will lead discussions on trends among younger consumers, and Jennifer Docherty will conduct blind tastings.

Sake kiosk brought by Sake Z+
Sake kiosk brought by Sake Z+
Fenjiu from Shanxi, a traditional Chinese liquor
Fenjiu from Shanxi, a traditional Chinese liquor

Tariffs and Taxes

Tariffs and taxes are bringing mixed news for the industry. Starting 11 October 2024, European brandy makers, particularly Cognac producers, have faced new taxes in China, creating a challenging outlook for them. However, more relevant for the Hong Kong fair will probably be the recent decision by the Hong Kong government to reduce liquor duties. Effective October 16, the duty on liquor priced above HK$200 (approximately US$26) will be reduced from 100% to 10% for the portion exceeding HK$200. This change is expected to benefit high-end liquor producers and may stimulate related sectors such as logistics, storage, tourism, and premium food and beverage consumption. Meininger’s International author Sarah Wong noted this could be a game-changer for the Hong Kong wine market, while Sophia Chong anticipates a significant boost in the market for Chinese baijiu. AZ

Markets

Despite a significant drop in wine imports, Hong Kong's wine industry is adapting to changing consumer habits, and economic challenges. Could 2025 bring a revival? Sarah Wong reports.

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