The 18th edition of the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today and runs for three days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, according to a release distributed via NEWMEDIAWIRE. The fair brings together more than 620 exhibitors from over 25 countries and regions, showcasing beverages from more than 40 origins.
The event underscores Hong Kong's position as an international trading hub for the wine and spirits industry, connecting global products with buyers worldwide. This year's fair features strong international participation, with returning exhibitors from France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom and Australia, alongside newcomers from Latin America such as Argentina, Mexico and Peru. Georgia, Romania, Slovakia and Uruguay are participating for the first time, while Calabria in Southern Italy and Brazil debut as participating pavilions.
The expanded World of Spirits zone returns, benefiting from the reduction in liquor duty, and brings together spirits exhibitors from 17 countries and regions covering the world's eight major spirits categories. Highlights include Slovakia's BENTIANNA Brandy Liqueur, Australia's Ironbark Red Whisky, Russia's Klimlin Palace Legendary Vodka, Mexico's Tequila Fregón, as well as soju from Korea, rum from the United Kingdom and Canada, gin from Czechia and Chinese baijiu. Chinese baijiu takes centre stage with the "Top 10 Chinese Baijiu Brands", including Moutai and Yanghe, and a new Baijiu Cultural Display Area that combines culture, technology and interactive experiences.
A "Chinese Baijiu Go Global" seminar held today attracted significant industry participation, reflecting the growing focus on globalisation of Chinese baijiu. Emerging Chinese wines from regions such as Xinjiang and Ningxia are also leveraging Hong Kong's platform to reach overseas markets through a series of tasting sessions.
The fair also features local brands that blend traditional techniques with Hong Kong flavours, such as Quadran Gin Salty Lime London Dry Gin and CATNIP tea gin – YUAN YANG, demonstrating the creativity of Hong Kong's young enterprises. Additionally, a range of distinctive beers and alcohol-free beverages cater to growing demand for diverse drinking experiences, including Cleddau Brewing Co. from Wales with its twin-format craft beer range and Korea's Rapunzel alcohol-free fermented beverages.
More than 40 events are scheduled, including tasting sessions, forums and networking activities. The popular Sommelier's Picks programme returns, featuring recommendations selected through blind tastings by Master Sommelier Derek Li and award-winning sommeliers Carlito Chiu and Anty Fung. For the first time, Chiu and Li will host a dedicated sharing session on the public day. Four internationally renowned Masters of Wine are hosting key events, including Bill Liu, Debra Meiburg, Xing Wei and Jennifer Docherty.
The final day, 7 November, will open the "Saturday Fiesta" zone to the public aged 18 or above, offering opportunities to sample fine wines and spirits, join themed activities and experience diverse drinking cultures. A cocktail and Cantopop-themed party, FIGARO AFTER HOURS, will combine DJ performances with cocktail culture. Regular admission is HK$220, with promotional tickets at HK$128 available until 6pm on 6 November through various channels. Pre-registration for public-day activities is available through the fair website: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwinefair/en.
The HKTDC, celebrating its 60th anniversary, promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub through international exhibitions, conferences and business missions. It also provides market insights via research reports and digital news channels.
