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Associated Press
6 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Asia Summit on Global Health and Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair Wrap Up Successfully
- Over 1,000 investment and business matching meetings lined up underscoring Hong Kong's role as a healthcare investment hub - ASGH brought together more than 2,900 participants from 42 countries and regions - Medical Fair attracted some 13,000 buyers from 57 countries and regions - The two flagship events together resulted in over 390 deal-making sessions and more than 660 business matching meetings - Collaboration agreements were signed during the events, covering areas including patient care, diagnostic solutions, innovative medical devices, and medical imaging HONG KONG - May 28, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) - The fifth Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH) and the 16th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair (Medical Fair), both organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), have drawn to a successful close. As flagship events of International Healthcare Week (IHW), both ASGH and the Medical Fair brought global healthcare stakeholders together, including government officials and organisations, research pioneers, investors, and business leaders. ASGH attracted over 2,900 participants from 42 countries and regions, while the Medical Fair received some 13,000 buyers from 57 countries and regions. Over 390 one-on-one deal-making sessions and more than 660 business matching meetings were arranged, facilitating over 1,000 high-quality collaborations and connections. The IHW continues to foster global exchange and cooperation, putting a spotlight on Hong Kong's vast potential in healthcare investment and trade, and reinforcing its position as a regional leading medical hub. Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said: 'The Asia Summit on Global Health and the Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair concluded with outstanding results driving new collaborations and investments, and injecting new momentum into the healthcare industry. The events brought together leaders across government, business, academia, and investment to tackle today's healthcare challenges, highlighting Hong Kong's unique advantages as an international innovation and technology hub under its 'eight centres' positioning, actively advancing medical technology, connecting global innovation resources, and paving the way for a healthier and more inclusive future.' Over 80 industry experts shared insights on healthcare development The two-day ASGH, jointly organised by the HKSAR Government and the HKTDC under the theme 'Fostering Global Collaboration for a Shared Future', focused on a wide spectrum of topics including public health, medical technology breakthroughs, healthy ageing and global business and investment collaboration. The event featured more than 80 speakers comprising government officials and organisations, research pioneers, investors, and business leaders from around the world, all contributing valuable insights to advance global well-being. Prof Lo Chung-mau, Secretary for Health of the HKSAR Government, delivered a keynote speech during the Plenary Session I: Shaping a More Equitable and Sustainable Health System. Other distinguished speakers, including Dr Wu Xiaobin, Vice President of China Pharmaceutical Innovation and Research Development Association; Martin Taylor, Representative to China, World Health Organization; Prof Nancy Ip, President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; and Frédéric Rimattei, Special Envoy for International Affairs of the President of French University Hospitals National Association, shared their insights on tackling global healthcare challenges, offering inspiration for the international healthcare community. In Plenary Session II: Fostering Global Collaboration for a Shared Future, speakers engaged in a lively discussion on trends in global healthcare collaboration. Among them was Ambassador George Hara, Group Chairman and CEO of DEFTA Partners and former Special Advisor to the Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister of Japan, who remarked that more advanced technology and new government regulations are needed to reach a compromise between companies' profits and patients' needs. During the Dialogue with Global Pioneer in Health session, Prof John Hardy, Chair of Molecular Biology of Neurological Disease of UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, shared his latest research findings and advanced developments in Alzheimer's disease. The summit co-organised sessions under the overarching theme, Shaping the Future of Healthcare, with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology for the first time. The discussion focused on the potential of AI in healthcare and how innovation could drive breakthroughs in the field. Dr Alex Ng, President of Tencent Healthcare, commented: 'One uniqueness of tech companies is that they can be easily distracted by the latest thing. But you do need companies with patience and perseverance to stay in healthcare and make it work.' Prof Graham Cooke, Vice-Dean (Research) Medicine of Imperial College London, also noted that embedding patient needs into healthcare systems is critical, as many innovations fail in translation due to a lack of this focus, with universities playing a key role as innovation drivers. In Beyond 'Healthy China 2030': Driving Health Innovation, speakers explored opportunities in the mainland healthcare market. Marc Horn, Executive Vice President of Merck and President of Merck China, highlighted the two-phase approach of 'China for China' followed by 'China for the globe', emphasising healthcare collaboration to develop advanced treatments for global benefit. Dr Zhang Lianshan, Executive Vice President of Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., stated: 'We would like to see our health innovation have realisation of its value, not only in China, but also outside of China. That is why we are talking about Globalisation, where we can achieve maximum value.' With growing global attention on healthy ageing, the summit introduced a dedicated Silver Health Chapter. A highlight was the thematic session titled Surfing the Silver Tsunami: Advancements in Geriatrics and Longevity Technology, where Prof Jean Woo, Director of Chinese University of Hong Kong Jockey Club Institute of Ageing, Prof James L. Kirkland, Director of Cedars-Sinai's Centre for Advanced Gerotherapeutics, and fellow experts explored both the challenges and opportunities posed by ageing populations. Prof Jean Woo highlighted that rapid population ageing is reshaping the global healthcare and socioeconomic landscape. As a city with one of the world's longest life expectancies, Hong Kong must take early action to strengthen elderly care policies and better allocate health resources. Prof James L. Kirkland also noted that geriatricians ultimately aim to help patients with multiple illnesses reduce medication use while treating their conditions more effectively, enhancing their overall quality of life. Over 390 deal-making sessions and cooperation agreements open new global opportunities A key feature of the summit was the ASGH Deal-Making session, which facilitated one-on-one meetings both online and offline, aiming to connect investors and projects in the healthcare sector from around the world to promote global collaborations. Investment projects spanned pharmaceuticals, medical devices and diagnostics, smart healthcare, and community health and wellness and more than 390 one-on-one meetings were successfully arranged for angel investors, venture capitalists, corporate venture arms, private equity firms and family offices. The summit facilitated the signing of cooperation agreements, such as those between Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong and Emerging Viral Diagnostics, and a tripartite collaboration with PanopticAI and SmartCare, HKSH Medical Group and United Imaging Healthcare, China Resources Guangdong Pharmaceuticals and Hong Kong Medtech Association, Hugobiotech and Bridgeway Healthcare Technology, Canossa Hospital and KA Imaging, and others. These agreements covered diverse healthcare areas, including patient care, diagnostic solutions, innovative medical devices, medical imaging and more. Under the tripartite collaboration agreement between Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong, PanopticAI, and SmartCare, the integration of PanopticAI's camera-based vital signs monitoring technology and SmartCare's patient-centered consultation platform will be implemented into Gleneagles clinic in the future. In addition to its discussion sessions, the summit also featured the ASGH Business Hub, showcasing more than 170 innovative technology companies related to the healthcare industry from 13 countries and regions, including the mainland (Shanghai and Xiamen), Australia, and Thailand, presenting projects and solutions across key areas such as medical innovation, smart healthcare, AI, big data, telemedicine, and cybersecurity. Zhong Wei, Co-founder of Mitrassist Lifesciences, joined the Shanghai Pavilion and said that ASGH helped them bring non-invasive medical monitoring technologies to Southeast Asia, Africa, and other Belt and Road Initiative countries. Medical Fair Drives Industry Innovation and Fosters Business Collaboration The Medical Fair, organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong MedTech Association, was held alongside ASGH. The Association—formerly known as the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association—held a renaming ceremony during the fair, showcasing the deep integration of medical technology and the industry. The fair brought together some 300 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions, featuring first-time pavilions from the United Kingdom, Thailand and Israel, along with debut exhibitors from Singapore, Germany, Italy and Luxembourg. In addition, seven local universities, over 30 innovative technology companies at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks pavilion, and more than 20 medical enterprises brought by the Hong Kong MedTech Association participated. The Hong Kong Council of Social Service also participated in the fair for the first time. Under the theme Innovations Boosting Smart Health Experience, the exhibition spotlighted three major areas: MedTech, GeronTech and green solutions, with many exhibits featuring applications of AI. Many exhibitors and buyers successfully expanded their networks and forged new partnerships at the exhibition. Among them was Hong Kong exhibitor Eieling Technology, a company founded to commercialise research outcomes from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The firm showcased its non-invasive liver examination technology, which utilises transient elastography technology. Co-founder and CEO Xiaojia Jia noted that only about four companies worldwide possess this technology, making it a major draw for buyers. 'During the exhibition, we received intention orders worth several million Hong Kong dollars from mainland China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Thailand, involving around ten devices. This is our third year participating, and we've observed a significant rise in buyers' professionalism during our discussions. We look forward to exhibiting again next year.' Karel Lee, CEO of Neoneco from Korea, sourced innovative medical products at the fair with a minimum budget of USD100,000 and he has already identified RhinoCare, an exhibitor from the Israeli pavilion, for its nasal decongestion device, and is also interested in a medical examination device from a Hong Kong exhibitor. Lee stated, 'The exhibition allows us to meet with exhibitors face-to-face, build trust, and accelerate the decision-making process. The HKTDC's Click2Match platform also facilitated efficient business matching. I have already connected with ten exhibitors, and another twenty reached out to me after learning about my sourcing needs. This is one of Asia's premium medical sourcing events, and we will definitely return next year.' Beyond business deals, insightful forums were arranged during the Medical Fair to give inspiration to industry buyers. These included The Latest Development of Regulatory Collaboration on Medical Devices in the Greater Bay Area, The MedTech Nexus of the Greater Bay Area, co-organised with the Hong Kong MedTech Association, and Fostering Silver Economy, Leading Quality Elderly & Rehabilitation Care Practices, co-organised with the HKCSS. These forums attracted a strong attendance and offered valuable insights into healthcare. Selected sessions are available for replay on the Fair's website for extended engagement. This year's Fair continued to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model. Global exhibitors, industry professionals, and buyers could make use of the Click2Match and explore sourcing opportunities via HKTDC Sourcing ( Sourcing). Click2Match will remain available until 4 June. Websites International Healthcare Week: Asia Summit On Global Health: Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: Photo download: Media enquiries For enquiries, please contact Yuan Tung Financial Relations Limited: HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department: Asia Summit on Global Health Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair Media Room: About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit:
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Asia Summit on Global Health and Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair Wrap Up Successfully
- Over 1,000 investment and business matching meetings lined up underscoring Hong Kong's role as a healthcare investment hub - ASGH brought together more than 2,900 participants from 42 countries and regions- Medical Fair attracted some 13,000 buyers from 57 countries and regions- The two flagship events together resulted in over 390 deal-making sessions and more than 660 business matching meetings- Collaboration agreements were signed during the events, covering areas including patient care, diagnostic solutions, innovative medical devices, and medical imaging HONG KONG - May 28, 2025 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - The fifth Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH) and the 16th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair (Medical Fair), both organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), have drawn to a successful close. As flagship events of International Healthcare Week (IHW), both ASGH and the Medical Fair brought global healthcare stakeholders together, including government officials and organisations, research pioneers, investors, and business leaders. ASGH attracted over 2,900 participants from 42 countries and regions, while the Medical Fair received some 13,000 buyers from 57 countries and regions. Over 390 one-on-one deal-making sessions and more than 660 business matching meetings were arranged, facilitating over 1,000 high-quality collaborations and connections. The IHW continues to foster global exchange and cooperation, putting a spotlight on Hong Kong's vast potential in healthcare investment and trade, and reinforcing its position as a regional leading medical hub. Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said: "The Asia Summit on Global Health and the Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair concluded with outstanding results driving new collaborations and investments, and injecting new momentum into the healthcare industry. The events brought together leaders across government, business, academia, and investment to tackle today's healthcare challenges, highlighting Hong Kong's unique advantages as an international innovation and technology hub under its eight centres' positioning, actively advancing medical technology, connecting global innovation resources, and paving the way for a healthier and more inclusive future." Over 80 industry experts shared insights on healthcare development The two-day ASGH, jointly organised by the HKSAR Government and the HKTDC under the theme Fostering Global Collaboration for a Shared Future', focused on a wide spectrum of topics including public health, medical technology breakthroughs, healthy ageing and global business and investment collaboration. The event featured more than 80 speakers comprising government officials and organisations, research pioneers, investors, and business leaders from around the world, all contributing valuable insights to advance global well-being. Prof Lo Chung-mau, Secretary for Health of the HKSAR Government, delivered a keynote speech during the Plenary Session I: Shaping a More Equitable and Sustainable Health System. Other distinguished speakers, including Dr Wu Xiaobin, Vice President of China Pharmaceutical Innovation and Research Development Association; Martin Taylor, Representative to China, World Health Organization; Prof Nancy Ip, President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; and Frdric Rimattei, Special Envoy for International Affairs of the President of French University Hospitals National Association, shared their insights on tackling global healthcare challenges, offering inspiration for the international healthcare community. In Plenary Session II: Fostering Global Collaboration for a Shared Future, speakers engaged in a lively discussion on trends in global healthcare collaboration. Among them was Ambassador George Hara, Group Chairman and CEO of DEFTA Partners and former Special Advisor to the Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister of Japan, who remarked that more advanced technology and new government regulations are needed to reach a compromise between companies' profits and patients' needs. During the Dialogue with Global Pioneer in Health session, Prof John Hardy, Chair of Molecular Biology of Neurological Disease of UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, shared his latest research findings and advanced developments in Alzheimer's disease. The summit co-organised sessions under the overarching theme, Shaping the Future of Healthcare, with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology for the first time. The discussion focused on the potential of AI in healthcare and how innovation could drive breakthroughs in the field. Dr Alex Ng, President of Tencent Healthcare, commented: "One uniqueness of tech companies is that they can be easily distracted by the latest thing. But you do need companies with patience and perseverance to stay in healthcare and make it work." Prof Graham Cooke, Vice-Dean (Research) Medicine of Imperial College London, also noted that embedding patient needs into healthcare systems is critical, as many innovations fail in translation due to a lack of this focus, with universities playing a key role as innovation drivers. In Beyond Healthy China 2030': Driving Health Innovation, speakers explored opportunities in the mainland healthcare market. Marc Horn, Executive Vice President of Merck and President of Merck China, highlighted the two-phase approach of "China for China" followed by "China for the globe", emphasising healthcare collaboration to develop advanced treatments for global benefit. Dr Zhang Lianshan, Executive Vice President of Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., stated: "We would like to see our health innovation have realisation of its value, not only in China, but also outside of China. That is why we are talking about Globalisation, where we can achieve maximum value." With growing global attention on healthy ageing, the summit introduced a dedicated Silver Health Chapter. A highlight was the thematic session titled Surfing the Silver Tsunami: Advancements in Geriatrics and Longevity Technology, where Prof Jean Woo, Director of Chinese University of Hong Kong Jockey Club Institute of Ageing, Prof James L. Kirkland, Director of Cedars-Sinai's Centre for Advanced Gerotherapeutics, and fellow experts explored both the challenges and opportunities posed by ageing populations. Prof Jean Woo highlighted that rapid population ageing is reshaping the global healthcare and socioeconomic landscape. As a city with one of the world's longest life expectancies, Hong Kong must take early action to strengthen elderly care policies and better allocate health resources. Prof James L. Kirkland also noted that geriatricians ultimately aim to help patients with multiple illnesses reduce medication use while treating their conditions more effectively, enhancing their overall quality of life. Over 390 deal-making sessions and cooperation agreements open new global opportunities A key feature of the summit was the ASGH Deal-Making session, which facilitated one-on-one meetings both online and offline, aiming to connect investors and projects in the healthcare sector from around the world to promote global collaborations. Investment projects spanned pharmaceuticals, medical devices and diagnostics, smart healthcare, and community health and wellness and more than 390 one-on-one meetings were successfully arranged for angel investors, venture capitalists, corporate venture arms, private equity firms and family offices. The summit facilitated the signing of cooperation agreements, such as those between Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong and Emerging Viral Diagnostics, and a tripartite collaboration with PanopticAI and SmartCare, HKSH Medical Group and United Imaging Healthcare, China Resources Guangdong Pharmaceuticals and Hong Kong Medtech Association, Hugobiotech and Bridgeway Healthcare Technology, Canossa Hospital and KA Imaging, and others. These agreements covered diverse healthcare areas, including patient care, diagnostic solutions, innovative medical devices, medical imaging and more. Under the tripartite collaboration agreement between Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong, PanopticAI, and SmartCare, the integration of PanopticAI's camera-based vital signs monitoring technology and SmartCare's patient-centered consultation platform will be implemented into Gleneagles clinic in the future. In addition to its discussion sessions, the summit also featured the ASGH Business Hub, showcasing more than 170 innovative technology companies related to the healthcare industry from 13 countries and regions, including the mainland (Shanghai and Xiamen), Australia, and Thailand, presenting projects and solutions across key areas such as medical innovation, smart healthcare, AI, big data, telemedicine, and cybersecurity. Zhong Wei, Co-founder of Mitrassist Lifesciences, joined the Shanghai Pavilion and said that ASGH helped them bring non-invasive medical monitoring technologies to Southeast Asia, Africa, and other Belt and Road Initiative countries. Medical Fair Drives Industry Innovation and Fosters Business Collaboration The Medical Fair, organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong MedTech Association, was held alongside ASGH. The Associationformerly known as the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Associationheld a renaming ceremony during the fair, showcasing the deep integration of medical technology and the industry. The fair brought together some 300 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions, featuring first-time pavilions from the United Kingdom, Thailand and Israel, along with debut exhibitors from Singapore, Germany, Italy and Luxembourg. In addition, seven local universities, over 30 innovative technology companies at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks pavilion, and more than 20 medical enterprises brought by the Hong Kong MedTech Association participated. The Hong Kong Council of Social Service also participated in the fair for the first time. Under the theme Innovations Boosting Smart Health Experience, the exhibition spotlighted three major areas: MedTech, GeronTech and green solutions, with many exhibits featuring applications of AI. Many exhibitors and buyers successfully expanded their networks and forged new partnerships at the exhibition. Among them was Hong Kong exhibitor Eieling Technology, a company founded to commercialise research outcomes from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The firm showcased its non-invasive liver examination technology, which utilises transient elastography technology. Co-founder and CEO Xiaojia Jia noted that only about four companies worldwide possess this technology, making it a major draw for buyers. "During the exhibition, we received intention orders worth several million Hong Kong dollars from mainland China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Thailand, involving around ten devices. This is our third year participating, and we've observed a significant rise in buyers' professionalism during our discussions. We look forward to exhibiting again next year." Karel Lee, CEO of Neoneco from Korea, sourced innovative medical products at the fair with a minimum budget of USD100,000 and he has already identified RhinoCare, an exhibitor from the Israeli pavilion, for its nasal decongestion device, and is also interested in a medical examination device from a Hong Kong exhibitor. Lee stated, "The exhibition allows us to meet with exhibitors face-to-face, build trust, and accelerate the decision-making process. The HKTDC's Click2Match platform also facilitated efficient business matching. I have already connected with ten exhibitors, and another twenty reached out to me after learning about my sourcing needs. This is one of Asia's premium medical sourcing events, and we will definitely return next year." Beyond business deals, insightful forums were arranged during the Medical Fair to give inspiration to industry buyers. These included The Latest Development of Regulatory Collaboration on Medical Devices in the Greater Bay Area, The MedTech Nexus of the Greater Bay Area, co-organised with the Hong Kong MedTech Association, and Fostering Silver Economy, Leading Quality Elderly & Rehabilitation Care Practices, co-organised with the HKCSS. These forums attracted a strong attendance and offered valuable insights into healthcare. Selected sessions are available for replay on the Fair's website for extended engagement. This year's Fair continued to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model. Global exhibitors, industry professionals, and buyers could make use of the Click2Match and explore sourcing opportunities via HKTDC Sourcing ( Sourcing). Click2Match will remain available until 4 June. Websites International Healthcare Week: Asia Summit On Global Health: Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: Photo download: Media enquiries For enquiries, please contact Yuan Tung Financial Relations Limited: Louise Song Tel: (852) 3428 5691 Email: lsong@ Tiffany Leung Tel: (852) 3428 2361 Email: tleung@ HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department: Asia Summit on Global Health Sharon Ha Tel: (852) 2584 4575 Email: Katy Wong Tel: (852) 2584 4524 Email: Jane Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4137 Email: Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair Kelly Shek Tel: (852) 2584 4537 Email: Clayton Lauw Tel: (852) 2584 4472 Email: Media Room: About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
18-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair Attract Some 88,000 Global Buyers
Low-altitude economic solutions highly popular with many industries actively exploring business opportunities - The 3rd InnoEX and 21st Spring Electronics Fair concluded successfully today, attracting some 88,000 buyers from 148 countries and regions. - One of the highlights of this year's InnoEX were the low-altitude economic solutions, which generated significant interest and attracted enquiries and business discussions from global buyers, including those from emerging markets. - Over half of InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair respondents intend to expand into emerging markets, including ASEAN, Mainland China and the Middle East. - 40% survey respondents at the Spring Electronics Fair expect their overall sales to increase in the next one to two years, while half of all respondents are confident that they can maintain the current level. HONG KONG - April 18, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) - The 3rd InnoEX, co-organised by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the HKSAR Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), alongside the 21st HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition), concluded successfully today. The four-day exhibitions attracted some 88,000 buyers from 148 countries and regions. Apart from local visitors, the fairs welcomed buyers mainly from Mainland China, India, Japan, Korea and Taiwan. Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said, 'As the two core events of the Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), InnoEX and the Spring Electronics Fair attracted some 88,000 visitors from Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas. By showcasing the latest smart solutions and R&D achievements to international buyers, exhibitors initiated numerous regional business collaborations and discussions, while exploring new markets successfully. The exhibitions further advanced Hong Kong's development as an international I&T hub and reinforced its status as a global trade centre, demonstrating Hong Kong's advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the world.' This year's InnoEX focused on five major technology areas, namely the low-altitude economy, AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and smart mobility, aiming to address pain points for both large and small and medium-sized enterprises and bring new development opportunities for them. Among the technology solutions, the low-altitude economy was particularly popular, attracting the attention of many buyers. InnoEX brought together the latest innovative R&D and solutions from around the world. The Smart Hong Kong Pavilion, set up by the Digital Policy Office, had over a hundred I&T achievements closely related to the lives of citizens, including I&T solutions from 20 government bureaux and departments, and award-winning solutions from multiple I&T competitions. In addition, there were multiple local pavilions, 17 pavilions from 16 provinces and municipalities in the Mainland, and overseas pavilions, including from Canada and the United Kingdom, the French 'So French So Innovative' pavilion, and the Smart Cities Council from Australia. The fair also attracted tertiary institutions and big companies which participated as independent exhibitors, including China Mobile Hong Kong, Huawei, IBM, and more. The exhibitors showcased their technological solutions in different fields and successfully attracted many buyers to discuss cooperation. Exhibitors expand into new markets while buyers actively source Zeng Quanhong, Manager of Marketing Department, Vertaxi, stated that the company showcased its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft at InnoEX, establishing relationships with some 30 potential buyers from ASEAN, Canada, Europe, India, UAE, and Hong Kong. 'InnoEX is a quality platform with high foot traffic which has broadened our horizons. For example, after communicating with buyers from Thailand, we learned that the aircraft could be applied to local tourism services in Thailand, helping us explore new markets. Our participation this year was very successful, and we will definitely return next year.' Australian buyer Spacious Property Development Group (Spacious) looked for technologies that can help reduce hotel operating costs at InnoEX, and was particularly interested in automated delivery robots, cleaning robots, and vending machines offered by exhibitors from Mainland China and Hong Kong respectively. Angela Liang, Managing Director of Spacious, said, 'InnoEX provided us with an excellent opportunity to introduce innovative technologies to the Australian market, especially now that the United States has increased tariffs, prompting suppliers around the world to actively explore other new markets.' In addition, some exhibitors successfully established important partnerships through InnoEX. Among them, Philippine buyer Digital Pilipinas and International Digital Economies Association signed a distribution agreement with the United Kingdom's exhibitor to introduce smart card system for buildings to the Philippines, with hopes of expanding into other emerging markets in the future. Xi'an Meinan Biotechnology Co. Ltd also signed a strategic cooperation agreement with H & Y Building Decoration Electrical Engineering (HK). The partnership aims to enhance the quality of construction projects in Hong Kong and internationally by utilising Meinan's waterproof mortar technology, promoting sustainable development. The Spring Electronics Fair showcased a variety of products, focusing on products and solutions in the fields of smart home, health tech and wearable devices and the exhibition attracted buyers from around the world and helped exhibitors expand into new markets. Many companies launched new products at the Electronics Fair, including Guangzhou's Havit Technology, which introduced a hat with headphone functionality utilising air conduction technology and a patented design. Qingdao's Thunderobot Technology, a subsidiary of Haier Group, made its debut in Asia outside of Mainland China with its smart glasses. At the fair, Shenzhen Antop Technology Co. from Mainland China, showcased air purifiers designed for households with pets. The company's International Business Development Manager, Bojia Yang, said, 'In the past, the US market accounted for over 80% of our business. With the increase in US tariffs, we are actively expanding our global operations and exploring new markets, targeting Asia, Europe, and South America. We have made contact with many potential buyers from India and South America at the exhibition, and in the first two days, we received about 50 potential leads, with at least one third showing significant collaboration potential.' The company is also discussing a contract for an order valued at approximately USD2.5 million. Additionally, Hong Kong medical technology exhibitor CYBERMED, is currently discussing business deals with two buyers from Mainland China and the Middle East, with each order valued at approximately USD200,000. American buyer DeWalt Mobile Solutions, which produces and sells mobile phone accessories, sourced products at Spring Electronics Fair. Its Director of International Operation, Danny Lo, said, 'We are a leading brand in the US and plan to purchase products worth USD500,000 to USD1 million at the electronics fair. Face-to-face communication with suppliers during this crucial sourcing time and discuss business in response to the tariff situations with them was especially important for us.' Four thematic days to explore the latest industry developments, with industry leaders sharing their insights During InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair, several conferences and seminars focused on hot technology topics were held, including the Tech-Driven Industry and Economy Conference, powered by the HKSAR Government's Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, which brought together government officials from various countries and regions to discuss how policy measures can promote industrial development. Participants also shared successful policy measures and emerging trends in various countries. Talent is crucial to promoting the development of the I&T ecosystem and, this year, InnoEX and the Spring Electronics Fair jointly hosted 'Exhibitors Meet Talents' to assist exhibitors in recruiting professionals and attract people who were interested in exploring job opportunities and engage with employers in the I&T industry. Half of respondents intend to expand into emerging markets To further understand the development trends of the I&T and electronics industries, HKTDC appointed an independent survey agency to interview 315 InnoEX and 642 Spring Electronics Fair exhibitors and buyers during the exhibitions. The key results are as follows: InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair - 50.7% of respondents from InnoEX and Spring Electronics Fair expressed their intention to expand into emerging markets, including ASEAN countries, Mainland China and the Middle East. InnoEX - 33% of respondents believe that the greatest strength of Hong Kong's innovation and technology sector is its unique position as an intermediary between the world and Mainland China. This s followed by having a highly skilled and multicultural talent pool (25.1%) and a robust and efficient financial market (24.6%). - 68.8% of surveyed Hong Kong exhibitors believe that FinTech is the strongest and most advantageous field of I&T in Hong Kong, followed by Smart Cities (18.2%). Spring Electronics Fair - 40% of respondents expect their companies' overall sales to increase in the next one to two years. Additionally, 50.5% expect to maintain the current overall sales figures, while less than 10% anticipate a decline. - Nearly 30% of respondents believe that compared to traditional electronic products and household appliances, consumers are willing to pay a premium of 21% to 30% more for products that are compatible with smart home or AI applications. In addition, the 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference brought together top experts, including Nobel Prize winning scholars, to discuss various innovation and science fields. The World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit, held in Hong Kong for the first time, also attracted nearly a thousand participants from all over the world to discuss the latest trends in areas such as AI, digital finance, digital government and smart living, creating synergies with BIT Week events. Photo download: Websites InnoEX: Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition): Media enquiries Yuan Tung Financial Relations: HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department: About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit:
Associated Press
17-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Global leaders attend inaugural World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit in Hong Kong
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 17 April 2025 - The inaugural World Internet Conference (WIC) Asia-Pacific Summit (April 14-15) gathered around 1,000 local, Mainland and overseas participants in Hong Kong to forge closer collaboration in developing artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. Themed 'Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future - Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace', it was the first time that the WIC has held an international summit outside Mainland China, affirming Hong Kong's role as an important bridge connecting China with the rest of the world. 'Hong Kong's rise as an I&T (innovation and technology) hub has been fast-tracked by our vibrant economy, which is powered by free trade and boasts the world's third-largest financial centre. It helps, too, that Hong Kong has long been a key business conduit between the Mainland and the rest of the world,' said Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee at the opening ceremony. 'And it all comes together under our unique 'one country, two systems' framework. This cardinal governing principle gives Hong Kong the best of both worlds: access to the vast opportunities of the Mainland market, while maintaining the advantages of our unmatched connectivity of our common law system, free flow of information, capital, goods and people.' Hong Kong SAR's Chief Executive John Lee speaks at the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit 2025 The opening ceremony was followed by a government-enterprise dialogue session, which brought together ministerial officials and senior representatives of industry corporations from a number of countries and regions. Business leaders from Intel, Alibaba Cloud, Ping An Group and many more also contributed to the in-depth exchanges on ways to harness I&T to drive economic and business development. 'AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It is at the core of developing new quality productive forces,' said Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry. 'The HKSAR Government implemented a series of initiatives to support the development of AI and perfect the local I&T ecosystem, with a view to developing AI as our core tech industry to inject new impetus to the city's high-quality development.' The first day of the summit also featured a Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future. Speaking at the forum, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said AI-powered tools are enabling governments and businesses to deliver smarter and more responsive services. 'To seize new opportunities brought by the digital economy and address the associated challenges, we need a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy. That's why, over the past two years, the HKSAR Government has put in place a concrete action plan, covering such areas as digital infrastructure and governance, digital transformation, cross-boundary flow of data and talent development,' Mr Chan said. Day Two of the summit (April 15) presented three sub-forums where expert speakers discussed issues related to 'Large Artificial Intelligence Models', 'Digital Finance' and 'Digital Government and Smart Life'. The Commissioner for Digital Policy, Tony Wong, also unveiled the 'Hong Kong Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline', showcasing Hong Kong's leading role in the field of generative AI governance. Hong Kong's annual I&T flagship event, the Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), is also being held this month, featuring a series of I&T activities, including the InnoEX and the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion set up by the Digital Policy Office, Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum. Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #innovation #technology #AI #conference #summit #WIC The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bahrain News Gazette
17-04-2025
- Business
- Bahrain News Gazette
Global leaders attend inaugural World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit in Hong Kong
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 April 2025 – The inaugural World Internet Conference (WIC) Asia-Pacific Summit (April 14-15) gathered around 1,000 local, Mainland and overseas participants in Hong Kong to forge closer collaboration in developing artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. Themed 'Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future – Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace', it was the first time that the WIC has held an international summit outside Mainland China, affirming Hong Kong's role as an important bridge connecting China with the rest of the world. 'Hong Kong's rise as an I&T (innovation and technology) hub has been fast-tracked by our vibrant economy, which is powered by free trade and boasts the world's third-largest financial centre. It helps, too, that Hong Kong has long been a key business conduit between the Mainland and the rest of the world,' said Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee at the opening ceremony. 'And it all comes together under our unique 'one country, two systems' framework. This cardinal governing principle gives Hong Kong the best of both worlds: access to the vast opportunities of the Mainland market, while maintaining the advantages of our unmatched connectivity of our common law system, free flow of information, capital, goods and people.' Hong Kong SAR's Chief Executive John Lee speaks at the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit 2025 The opening ceremony was followed by a government-enterprise dialogue session, which brought together ministerial officials and senior representatives of industry corporations from a number of countries and regions. Business leaders from Intel, Alibaba Cloud, Ping An Group and many more also contributed to the in-depth exchanges on ways to harness I&T to drive economic and business development. 'AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It is at the core of developing new quality productive forces,' said Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry. 'The HKSAR Government implemented a series of initiatives to support the development of AI and perfect the local I&T ecosystem, with a view to developing AI as our core tech industry to inject new impetus to the city's high-quality development.' The first day of the summit also featured a Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future. Speaking at the forum, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said AI-powered tools are enabling governments and businesses to deliver smarter and more responsive services. 'To seize new opportunities brought by the digital economy and address the associated challenges, we need a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy. That's why, over the past two years, the HKSAR Government has put in place a concrete action plan, covering such areas as digital infrastructure and governance, digital transformation, cross-boundary flow of data and talent development,' Mr Chan said. Day Two of the summit (April 15) presented three sub-forums where expert speakers discussed issues related to 'Large Artificial Intelligence Models', 'Digital Finance' and 'Digital Government and Smart Life'. The Commissioner for Digital Policy, Tony Wong, also unveiled the 'Hong Kong Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline', showcasing Hong Kong's leading role in the field of generative AI governance. Hong Kong's annual I&T flagship event, the Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), is also being held this month, featuring a series of I&T activities, including the InnoEX and the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion set up by the Digital Policy Office, Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum.
