Vinexpo Asia returns to Hong Kong for first time since pandemic

Vinexpo Asia kicks off on 28 May, returning to Hong Kong for the first time since the onset of the pandemic, with more than 10,000 trade visitors and 1,032 producers in attendance.

The wine and spirits trade exhibition is being held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) 28-30 May 2024. Its organisers are calling this year’s fair a significant milestone, as it returns to Hong Kong for the first time since the onset of the pandemic.

Vinexposium group CEO Rodolphe Lameyse said of the upcoming show: “We are honoured to be returning to Hong Kong, with its diverse and inclusive culture, favourable business and trading environment, and enormous opportunities as the gateway to the Greater Bay Area, China and the fast-growing Asian markets including Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia.”

More than 10,000 trade visitors from 60 countries including importers, wholesalers, distributors, wine merchants, retailers, hoteliers and restaurateurs are expected to attend Vinexpo Asia 2024.

Approximately 1,032 producers from 35 exhibitor countries – including Australia and China among the top five – along with Chile, Argentina, South Africa, New Zealand and the United States representing the ‘New World’; and France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Switzerland showcasing Europe.

Vinexpo Asia’s programme of 50 masterclasses, conferences and tastings has been designed to address the evolving challenges of the industry. A total of 75 experts are slated to share their insights across more than 50 sessions over the three days.

The masterclasses and conferences scheduled include:

• A panel discussion on consumer trends, challenges and opportunities for the industry in Hong Kong and The Greater Bay Area, led by Rob Temple, managing director of Sinowine, on 28 May.

• A session on 29 May unveiling the Château Angelus 2022 by Hubert de Boüard de Laforest and Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal, which has a history of almost 250 years.

• A wine masterclass, hosted by Hong Kong-based Jennifer Docherty MW, who will select a flight of Bordeaux wines – one white and four left-bank reds – that are drinking now.

• A ‘Roundtable with Industry Titans: Insights into the Future of China’s Wine Market’ with China industry leaders from ASC Fine Wines, Wajiu and other key opinion leaders delving into the current dynamics and future directions of China’s wine market, held on 29 May.

• Spirit sessions include ‘Understanding Agave Spirits – the origin of Tequila and Mezcal’, ‘Saké & Food: A Versatile Blend’, ‘Status Spirits – Perpetual Progress or Bursting Bubble’ and more.