Hong Kong firms at 2026 Import Expo rise 30%, setting new record
The ninth China International Import Expo opens on 5 November in Shanghai. Nearly 400 Hong Kong firms are participating, a record high, with the HKTDC organising two pavilions featuring 71 exhibitors, up 30 per cent from last year.
The ninth China International Import Expo will open on 5 November in Shanghai and run for six days. The Ministry of Commerce earlier described the event as a major economic and diplomatic activity following the 20th Fifth Plenary Session. A record nearly 400 Hong Kong enterprises are participating this year, the highest ever. The expo will feature a dedicated Hong Kong professional theme pavilion focusing on food, consumer goods and professional services, and will include a new “overseas expansion service zone” for the first time.
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) deputy chairman and China general representative, Zhong Yongxi, told RTHK that the expo helps Hong Kong products and services enter the mainland market and serves as a platform for international exchanges and technological cooperation. He revealed that the HKTDC will set up a “Hong Kong Food Pavilion” and a “Hong Kong Services Pavilion”, covering a combined area of 1,660 square metres, 11 per cent larger than last year and also a new record. A total of 71 Hong Kong firms will exhibit, an increase of more than 30 per cent from the previous edition.
Zhong said the food pavilion will debut a “Hong Kong Brand Zone” featuring nine well-known local brands that already have some recognition in mainland China, with the aim of further enhancing their brand appeal through participation. Noting the intense price competition in the current e-commerce environment, he stressed the importance of highlighting the Hong Kong brand, its story and product quality. The livestreaming studio first set up in the food pavilion last year will be continued, he added, saying it provides a valuable experience for small and medium-sized enterprises that may be less familiar with e-commerce and livestreaming promotion, helping them boost brand awareness.
Regarding the Hong Kong Services Pavilion, Zhong said it will incorporate innovation and overseas expansion elements. The Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park will exhibit for the first time, featuring 14 companies specialising in artificial intelligence and life sciences. Hong Kong’s Chinese University and Polytechnic University will also showcase their research achievements at the event.