Over 2,000 business buyers from ASEAN keen to leverage the Hong Kong platform
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) successfully organized the signature promotion event, Think Business, Think Hong Kong (TBTHK), in Bangkok on 13-14 July. This event received an enthusiastic response from Thai government officials and business leaders, showcasing Hong Kong’s strengths and positioning it as a leading international business hub.
Leveraging Hong Kong as a Gateway
The two-day event attracted over 2,000 buyers from 8 ASEAN countries, along with their local chambers and associations, highlighting their interest in using Hong Kong as a gateway to expand their businesses globally. This reinforces Hong Kong’s role as a preferred destination for businesses looking to access both the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and ASEAN markets.
The Exclusive Hong Kong Night Cocktail Reception
On the first day of the event, an exclusive Hong Kong Night Cocktail Reception brought together Thai, ASEAN, and Hong Kong business leaders to network and explore potential opportunities. The event was opened by Dr. Peter K N Lam, HKTDC Chairman, with speeches delivered by Mr. Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and Dr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok.
Capitalizing on Hong Kong’s Unique Strengths
During the event, Dr. Lam emphasized a focus on lifestyle and shared insights on e-commerce, sustainability, ESG, and the future of retail through a series of Trade Talks. These topics were of great interest to Thai businesses and aligned with Thailand’s BCG growth strategy. Dr. Lam highlighted that Hong Kong’s strategic location between the GBA and ASEAN presents numerous opportunities for Thai businesses and further strengthens Hong Kong-Thailand’s economic ties.
Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
Mr. Yau acknowledged the flourishing partnership between Hong Kong and Thailand over the years. He emphasized that Hong Kong, with its unique strengths under the one country, two systems principle, connects global investors with promising projects along the Belt and Road, fostering collaboration and innovation within the GBA.
Working Together for Mutual Success
Dr. Sittipunt stressed the importance of working together, stating that Bangkok and Hong Kong are two thriving cities in Asia, each with its unique strengths and advantages. By pooling their strengths, expertise, and resources from the government, public, and private sectors, they can create more opportunities and foster a business ecosystem that attracts investments, drives innovation, and supports emerging industries in the region.
Exploring New Business Opportunities
The TBTHK Trade Expo allowed Thai companies to source new and innovative quality lifestyle products and services from 120 Hong Kong exhibitors. The Expo featured products and services from various sectors, including fashion & lifestyle, health & wellness, home & living, toys & gadgets, and smart city solutions. Over 80% of these offerings were new to the Thai market.
Success Stories at TBTHK
For example, EDIT & EDITECTURE, a Hong Kong exhibitor specializing in sustainable interior and architecture projects, made its debut in the Thai market at TBTHK. Ms. Jacqueline Chak, Co-founder, and Director of the company expressed delight at the overwhelming response they received from attendees, including those outside the design industry.
B. DUCK, the Hong Kong original brand and a prominent domestic character IP in Mainland China, also found potential partners and opportunities in Thailand during the event.
Insights from Retail Experts
The Trade Talks held during the event covered various topics, including retail technology, licensing opportunities, e-commerce, cross-border logistics, sustainability, and ESG. Experts from renowned retail groups, associations, and innovative companies shared their market insights.
For instance, Mr. Anson Balley, Head of Consumer & Retail, APAC of KPMG China, emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) would become the most disruptive technology. He also discussed other emerging trends, including IoT security, virtual events, digital twins, sustainable fashion, and packaging.
Citywide Promotion of Hong Kong Lifestyle and Design
To showcase Hong Kong’s dynamic lifestyle and design-led products and fashion, the HKTDC collaborated with Hong Kong-linked merchants and restaurants in Bangkok for a citywide promotion. Thai consumers were provided with a range of promotional offers until the end of July. This partnership included well-known brands such as Kam’s Roast, Maxim’s, City Chain, and others. Additionally, in collaboration with LINE MAN, select Hong Kong-style restaurants offered exclusive dining offers until the end of the month.
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