Updates from Hong Kong: December 2023
From our Senior Commercial Officer, Geoffrey Parish
First off, Season’s Greetings and Happy Holidays to all of our friends, colleagues, partners, and clients around the world! We’ve had a very busy few weeks in the run up to the holiday season and huge thanks to the entire team for managing several of these while I was away in the United States.
Along with hosting Commerce’s esteemed Deputy Assistant Secretary for China Scott Shaw during his visit to the region, we had the pleasure of supporting the visit of California Governor Gavin Newsom and several mayors from the U.S. Heartland, who started a roadshow through Greater China here in Hong Kong. The steady stream of high-level visitors has been exciting, and we hope this is the precursor to more visits in 2024!
We were also thrilled to support U.S. exhibitors at Cosmoprof-Asia. Our team partnered with U.S. Commercial Service offices across Asia to recruit 62 regional buyers to meet with 45 U.S. companies at the show exhibiting under the U.S. Pavilion. This has always been one of the key shows our team focuses on each year, and we were excited that it was part of our Trade Event Partnership Program (TEPP). November also saw us host a promotional event for American Express, participate in Build and Design Week, and get our feet wet in the world of yachts and pleasure boats at the Hong Kong International Boat Show. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the Marine Corps Ball on November 11, which celebrated the 248th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps!
December is proving equally packed with a trade mission of U.S. companies recruited in coordination with IBS Consulting and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, which visited the first week of December. I also had the great pleasure to speak to members of HKGCC’s Americas Committee about the work of the Commercial Service and the U.S.-Hong Kong commercial relationship.
As we enter the holidays, I want to thank each and every one of our partners for your support as we worked to strengthen U.S.- Hong Kong business ties throughout 2023. I’d like to express our gratitude and best wishes for the holiday season, and we look forward to connecting again with you in 2024!
Upcoming Commercial Service Events
Hong Kong Medical Technologies Pitch Book
We are looking for 15 innovative U.S. medical device companies to participate in our upcoming Medical Technologies Pitchbook to be marketed to more than 20 distributors in Hong Kong and Macau. With a GDP per capita of US$49,464, Hong Kong has one of the highest GDP per capita in Asia. Along with its rapidly ageing society, there is potential for U.S. companies to take advantage of its growing US$14.9 billion healthcare market.
Participating companies will receive a customized market assessment report, along with distributor feedback and recommendations on the market potential of their products. The target sub-sectors for this initiative are geriatric care, physical therapy/rehabilitation and chronic disease management.
CES 2024, Las Vegas, January 9-12, 2024
We are starting our recruitment for the biggest consumer electronic shows globally, The Consumer Electronic Show (CES 2024). Happening January 9 - 12, CES is deemed as the most influential event globally for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies.
The organizer has once again reaffirmed their partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service. Our delegates from Hong Kong and Macau will enjoy an elevated list of exclusive benefits including: complimentary registration, deluxe conference pass discount, access to the International Business Centers, assistance from Trade Specialists from the U.S. Department of Commerce for matchmaking and export trade counseling, and a special invitation to the CES 2024 International Reception to network and create effective business connections.
Those interested in joining the Hong Kong delegation may fill out the form here.
World of Concrete, Las Vegas, January 22-25, 2024
We are kicking off our recruitment for World of Concrete (WOC) 2024, the industry’s only annual international tradeshow dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries.
WOC attracts 1,500 exhibitors and 60,000 attendees globally and from different segments of the construction industry including concrete repair and demolition, information technology, material handling. Conference attendees get to learn about the full spectrum of concrete production including decorative concrete, precast, and masonry.
Next year’s show marks the 50th year for WOC and through this partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service, Hong Kong delegates can get to enjoy exclusive benefits. If you are heading to the show, please consider going as part of our delegation. Please Email Michael Wajntal for more information.
Asian Financial Forum, On January 24-25, 2024
The Asian Financial Forum (AFF), January 24-25, 2024, is one of the key events for the financial industry in the region. It brings together policymakers, business leaders, investors, and experts to discuss the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges in the global economy. The forum is a must-attend event for companies who want to gain insights into the future of finance, fintech, green finance, sustainable development, or innovation.
The U.S. Commercial Service will be present to engage with American exhibitors and concurrently, will assist and guide Hong Kong companies with their expansion strategies into the U.S. market.
If you want to learn more about the AFF and how it can benefit your business, please contact Boris at boris.meyer@trade.gov. He will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with more details.
Go West Summit, February 26-29, 2024
The Go West Summit, happening on February 26-29, 2024 in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, is dedicated to connecting tourism industry suppliers with buyers and media from all over the world. In its 35th year, the event focuses on business-building with buyers from the 2023 event expected to bring 4.7 million visitors to the U.S. over the next 18 months. The Go West Summit is designed to unite top-notch global tour operators with niche suppliers who offer tourism-related products or services in the American West.
If you are planning to attend the show, please consider joining the 2024 Hosted Buyer Program. This exclusive program offers free registration to meet with suppliers from the American West, entrance to all events, main meals, and hotel accommodations on February 25-28, 2024. Buyers also have complimentary access to FAM trips and Adventure Day. Email Maggie Lau, Commercial Specialist, for more information.
 MODEX 2024, Atlanta, March 11 – 14, 2024
We are starting to gather attention from Hong Kong companies to attend MODEX 2024 as it is one of the most important supply chain tradeshows worldwide, rallying the entire supply chain ecosystem together to showcase all the end-to-end solutions and innovations for your manufacturing, logistics and warehousing operations.
With over 900 exhibitors participating, 150 educational seminars, and now with the full support of the U.S. Commercial Service offering exclusive perks and access, this expo is a MUST if you want your supply chain operations to be more agile and efficient.
To join our delegation and enjoy exclusive benefits, please contact Michael Wajntal for more information.
 Natural Expo West, March 12-16, 2024
Calling out to all natural and organic product buyers as we commence recruitment for the Natural Expo West show next March at the Anaheim Convention Center. After years of successful collaboration, the U.S. Commercial Service is once again confirming our partnership with conference organizer to attract buyers globally to meet with U.S. manufacturers.
Rated as one of the top trade shows in the U.S., the show will feature more than 50,000 products from 2,800 exhibitors. Last year’s show attracted more than 68,000 attendees as buyers clamored to introduce and launch new products for their markets. The Natural and Organic industry was valued at US$ 25.1 billion in 2022 with a CAGR of 8.7%. This trend continued to rise through COVID_19, creating a new consumer demographic and preference for high quality products.
Join our delegation to enjoy benefits that are reserved for U.S. Commercial Service, please email Natalie Tong for more information.
Join IPW, the U.S’ largest inbound travel trade show, May 3-7, 2024
With wanderlust on high gear again, it makes perfect sense to attend the U.S. Travel Association’s IPW 2024 in Los Angeles, California next May 3-7. IPW 2024 has confirmed the participation of more than 1,200 travel exhibitors and destination organizations.
As part of the delegation, attendees will get up to 42 prescheduled appointments with exhibitors representing destinations, hotels, attractions, and transportation companies. The U.S Travel Association will provide lodging at the assigned hotel for five nights. Additionally, your registration includes all meals and networking functions, which are an official part of IPW.
If you are a travel agent interested in promotion U.S. as a holiday destination or travel media wanting to rediscover the U.S., please contact Maggie Lau at maggie.lau@trade.gov to learn about the conference.
Be Part of the Delegation for WasteExpo, May 6-9, 2024
WasteExpo is North America’s largest solid waste, recycling, organics and sustainability tradeshow serving both the private and public sectors. It will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 6-9, 2024. From connecting with 13,000 of your peers to doing business with 600+ exhibitors, it’s an event that cannot be missed.
We are actively recruiting companies to be a part of the Hong Kong delegation. Benefits of joining the delegation include complimentary exhibition hall admission, discounted premium package education program fees, complimentary ticket to the International Reception WasteExpo, complimentary ticket to the Welcome Reception, pre-arranged and facilitated briefings and meetings with U.S. exhibitors, and complimentary use of the International Business Center for B2B meetings.
If you are interested in being a part of this meaningful delegation, please contact Maggie Lau at maggie.lau@trade.gov to learn.
 NAFSA 2023 Annual Conference & Expo, May 28-31, 2024
NAFSA, the world’s largest association dedicated to international education and exchange, is holding the 2024 NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo from May 28-31, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. International educators from more than 100 nations will discover the latest innovations, proven strategies, and best practices at NAFSA 2023.
If you are planning to attend or have already registered for NAFSA 2024, please connect with Maggie at maggie.lau@trade.gov to help optimize your trip. For more information on education in Hong Kong, please visit our Country Commercial Guide.
Recent Highlights
Hong Kong FinTech Week, November 2-3, 2023
The Hong Kong Fintech Week is a highly anticipated event in the financial industry, bringing together professionals, entrepreneurs and innovators around the world. As one of the leading fintech hubs globally, Hong Kong has established itself as a prime destination for fostering technological advancements and driving financial inclusion. Some top trends – cross-border payments, artificial intelligence, digitalization and ESG, will continue to have global impact in shaping the future of finance.
The year’s conference featured over 500 speakers who are visionaries in their fields and 700 exhibitors showcasing the cutting-edge solutions. If you are interested in participating future Fintech-related events in Hong Kong, please reach out to Nicole Yan.
U.S. Alternative Asset Fund Managers Certified Trade Mission, On November 6-7, 2023
On November 6-7, the U.S. Commercial Service in Hong Kong hosted its second Certified Trade Mission of the year for U.S. Alternative Asset Fund Managers. The event welcomed twelve U.S. funds to meet with some of Hong Kong’s top institutional investors, including family offices, multi-family offices and other high-net-worth individuals, many of whom have significant portfolios and a history of involvement with U.S. funds. The mission kicked off with a LP-GP Networking Reception at the U.S. Consul General’s Residence on November 6, followed by a half-day trade mission at the Grand Hyatt on the afternoon of November 7. This was the second such mission in Hong Kong this year, with a special focus on U.S. blockchain funds, highlighting the potential of blockchain technology.
We are excited to announce that the next Certified Trade Mission will be held at the end of February 2024. For more information, please reach out to Boris Meyer at boris.meyer@trade.gov.
Brands of California Reception, November 14, 2024
After a 3- year hiatus, Cosmoprof Asia once again returned to Hong Kong and partnered with the U.S. Commercial Service team to recruit qualified buyers for their Buyer Program. We seized this opportunity to present this program to the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (Go-Biz)’s STEP Program, to allow Californian small businesses to exhibit at a subsidized rate to showcase their products at Asia’s biggest B2B beauty tradeshow.
The night before Cosmoprof, we organized a networking reception connecting the brands to more than 35 distributors that were recruited for the show by our colleagues across 9 countries at Deputy Consul General Colin Crosby’s Residence.
The brands enjoyed the reception and found it effective in learning insights about different markets and potential partners. We hope to continue this wonderful partnership with Cosmoprof Asia. For more information about how to participate in future programs, please contact Natalie Tong.
Cosmoprof Asia, November 15-17, 2024
This year’s Cosmoprof Asia once again proved itself as the region’s most formidable B2B beauty tradeshow as more than 60,000 industry professionals attended the show to learn about the latest trade trends, find new and exciting products to represent, and catching up with longtime partners.
Our Consul General, Gregory May, was invited to join the official launch ceremony together with representatives from Cosmoprof Asia, BolognaFiere Cosmoprof s.p.a, other Consuls General, and trade association representatives. 45 U.S. companies exhibited in this year’s show, including 5 California companies who received STEP funding from the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (Go-Biz).
The U.S. Commercial Service successfully recruited more than 60 qualified buyers from 9 countries across the region as part of the longstanding partnership between the organizer and Commercial Service. We look forward to bringing more participation opportunities to U.S. exporters. Please contact Natalie Tong to further information.
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