HONG KONG has underscored its status as Asia’s exhibition powerhouse by hosting the 92nd UFI Global Congress at AsiaWorld-Expo, marking the global association’s 100th anniversary. Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) hailed the event as a milestone that cements the city’s position as the region’s trade show capital and gateway to the Greater Bay Area.
The four-day gathering organised by UFI – the Global Association of the Exhibitions Industry – drew over 600 delegates from 47 countries under the theme “Shaping the Future”.
The event coincided with AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)’s 20th anniversary and spotlighted Hong Kong’s world-class infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and its integration with the Greater Bay Area. Cultural experiences and tours were also held to show the city’s vibrancy to delegates.
“This year’s Congress holds special significance; it is both an honour and a testament to our city’s enduring position as the ‘World’s Meeting Place’, said HKTB Chairman Peter Lam.
“Combined with business-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, professional services and unique GBA opportunity, Hong Kong continues to attract international business events across the region,” Lam told congress delegates.
“Hong Kong goes beyond being just a business hub – the city boasts a year-round calendar of world-class mega events, enlivening it with delightful activities, exclusive festive attractions and irresistible experiences.”
UFI chief executive, Chris Skeith, said: “Experience and trust are two major trends to watch for the industry, and Hong Kong is the perfect destination for us today. Not only have you got the people, the growth opportunity, the amazing landscapes and seascape, and you have also got the venues and the capability to help deliver the events that we can bring.
Not only have you got the people, the growth opportunity, the amazing landscapes and seascape, and you have also got the venues and the capability to help deliver the events that we can bring”
– Chris Skeith, UFI chief executive
“So as UFI moves into our next centenary, I can see lots of our members bringing events to Hong Kong again,” Skeith said.
The Congress also honoured outstanding contributions with the UFI Medal of Honour, awarded to Chen Xianjin, Michael Duck, Jo-Anne Kelleway, and Cliff Wallace. Panittha Buri, Vice Chairperson of Bhiraj Buri Group, who was announced as UFI’s new President for 2025–26.
Figures show that Hong Kong’s two main venues – Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and AWE – hosted more than 350 exhibitions in 2024, attracting 9.17 million participants. Ten new trade shows were launched this year.
Moving ahead, AWE’s Phase 2 expansion – due for completion in 2028 – is set to feature Hong Kong’s largest indoor performance venue with 20,000 seats. The new venue will form part of Skytopia, a project taking shape between AWE, the city’s airport and port facilities for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridge and tunnel link. The project was previously marketed as SkyCity.
Exhibition industry leaders attending the UFI Congress expressed confidence in Hong Kong’s appeal. Richard Ireland, CEO of Clarion Events Asia, said: “It didn’t take us long to realise that Hong Kong is a great destination for such a show. Its location near the Greater Bay Area, its affluent population and ability to host large successful events really made it a very simple decision.”
More… UFI lands in HK for centenary
Margaret Ma Connolly, President and CEO of Informa Markets Asia, added: “Hong Kong has a lot going for it, with the MICE industry being the hub in APAC. I do believe this is Asia’s century and now the momentum is strong.
She said Informa has organised Asia debuts in Hong Kong aligned with key strategic pillars in the city government’s Policy Address such as events for aviation, logistic hubs or MICE industry development.
“We have launched the Super Terminal Expo, The Battery Show Asia, the Beauty Ingredients & Formulation Asia and Connect Marketplace Hong Kong and we are also launching [tech event] LEAP East.
Irene Chan, CEO of AWE, said: “As we celebrate this centenary milestone in partnership with UFI, I am immensely proud of AsiaWorld-Expo’s role as a world-class venue hosting this exceptional congress.
“The theme has sparked a dynamic exchange of creativity and forward-thinking ideas, reaffirming Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a gateway to global markets.”
