On August 13, 2026, the 36th Food Expo and four other major exhibitions, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), officially opened at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Bringing together over 1,850 exhibitors from 32 countries and regions across 43 pavilions, the five exhibitions comprehensively showcase global cuisine, premium teas, health and beauty products, and smart home innovations. Beyond offering a diverse array of products to industry professionals and the general public, the event highlights Hong Kong's unique appeal as an international trade hub.
The grand opening ceremony of the five exhibitions was held in the morning. Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, served as the guest of honor and delivered the keynote speech, while Dr. Tsai delivered the welcome address on behalf of the HKTDC. In his speech, Paul Chan expressed his delight that this year's expo has, for the first time, gathered representatives from all 11 ASEAN member states, including Brunei and Timor-Leste, which are participating for the first time. This historic milestone not only enriches the international participation of the expo but also further consolidates Hong Kong's economic and trade ties with the ASEAN region. He highlighted that curated products from around the world are displayed alongside local offerings, while Hong Kong's fisheries and agricultural products made a stunning debut under the new unified brand "Hong Kong Fresh." Additionally, specialty products from 60 provinces, municipalities, and regions across mainland China were brought together. Paul Chan emphasized, "All this demonstrates the enduring appeal of quality products and a better life, and showcases Hong Kong's unique ability to bring together international partners, regional enterprises, and discerning consumers."
Paul Chan also highly commended the expo's innovative model of running B2B and B2C events side by side, noting that both industry experts and general consumers can find options tailored to their needs. He remarked, "These exhibitions bring food and health products from around the world to the people of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, delivering the finest products from every continent right to our doorstep." He enthusiastically encouraged overseas visitors to enjoy Hong Kong's culinary delights and scenic beauty alongside their exhibition visits, and humorously advised local attendees, "Plan your route well and save some appetite for the end of the hall—there are exciting things waiting for you." In his welcome address, Dr. Tsai introduced this year's theme, "Live Well. Stay Well," which is dedicated to providing a diverse range of food, beverage, and lifestyle products, services, and experiences to comprehensively meet modern consumers' pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling life.
Each of the five exhibitions features its own distinct characteristics, precisely catering to different market demands. At the public-facing Food Expo, visitors can taste and purchase the world's most delicious and trendy food, with the "Premium Food Zone" standing out as a major highlight. Meanwhile, the trade-only Food Expo Pro continues to consolidate Hong Kong's position as an international food trade hub, attracting exhibitors from countries such as Brunei, Colombia, Greece, and Denmark. Aligning with industry trends, Food Expo Pro has introduced a new "Meat" zone this year, alongside "Food Science and Technology" and "Coffee" zones, focusing on the innovative technologies shaping the future of food and modern lifestyles. The "Food Science and Technology" zone showcases the latest global innovations in food preservation, nutritional enhancement, and sustainable packaging, pointing the way for the industry's future development. At the same time, in response to the growing global demand for halal food, the expo has gathered a dedicated group of halal food exhibitors.
The Hong Kong International Tea Fair offers industry buyers and the public a diverse selection of teas, tea products, and tea ware. This year, a newly added zone specially showcases premium tea art from Guizhou and Zhejiang in mainland China, allowing visitors to delve deeper into tea culture through competitions, seminars, and other enriching programs. Meanwhile, the Home Appliances, Home & Lifestyle Expo caters to the trends of smart home and healthy living by featuring a brand-new "Quality Sleep Experience" zone. Addressing the widespread sleep quality issues among modern urbanites, it集中 showcases smart mattresses, sleep-aid tech devices, and eco-friendly home products, leading a new trend in healthy home living. The Beauty & Health Expo comprehensively gathers beauty, healthcare, wellness, and fitness products to meet the consumption demands of the era of comprehensive health.
Serving as a bridge connecting the mainland with the world, this year's expo also provides a gateway for mainland Chinese enterprises to access global markets. Dr. Tsai pointed out that companies from places like Guizhou can leverage the Hong Kong platform to "go global." The expo has partnered with the trade promotion center of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and relevant departments to host thematic roundtable meetings, further helping mainland enterprises expand into international markets. This in-depth regional cooperation not only enhances the trade value of the expo but also underscores Hong Kong's role as a "super connector" in regional economic development.
It is reported that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the HKTDC's establishment. To celebrate, the organizers and exhibitors have launched a variety of celebratory events and consumer discounts, further stimulating market vitality. Regarding the schedule, the Food Expo, Beauty & Health Expo, and Home Appliances, Home & Lifestyle Expo will run until August 17, while Food Expo Pro and the Hong Kong International Tea Fair will be held from August 13 to 15. The successful opening of the five exhibitions not only builds an efficient trade platform for global exhibitors and buyers but also injects strong momentum into regional economic recovery and consumption upgrading.