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Following is the speech (English only) by the Financial Secretary, Mr Henry Tang, at the Opening Ceremony of the Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair 2004 at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this morning (April 28):
Michael, Frederick, Jeff, Cliff, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a great pleasure to join you this morning for the opening of the Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair 2004. I would like to extend my warmest welcome to all buyers and participants, particularly our guests from overseas. You all have made the right choice in venturing to Hong Kong - Asia's world city - to see the latest in gift ideas, design and premium items.
There is no doubt that this fair is the premier event of its kind in the region. This year, there are more than 3,400 exhibitors all under one roof. Buyers will have a fantastic range of quality goods to choose from. To better reflect our strength in innovation and creativity, a Hall of Fine Designs has been set up to feature up-market branded products, designer collections and other original items in a more prestigious surrounding. This Fair has long been recognised as the best sourcing hub in Asia and as a premier networking venue for industry players. We are very proud to host this elite Fair and look forward to your continued support in the years to come.
Hong Kong is one of the world's major exporters of giftware. In 2002, the industry boasted exports worth US$19 billion - that's an average of almost US$1.6 billion worth of goods a month. Looking ahead, we see strong growth prospects. The signing of the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement between the Mainland and Hong Kong provides a strong impetus for further market development in areas such as high-value-added and original design manufacturing. We are forging an even closer relationship with our immediate neighbors to better integrate our logistics and trade services with the quality manufacturing of the Pearl River Delta. This enhanced synergy will further boost the competitiveness of the Greater Pearl River Delta region in providing the world market with high quality products at a reasonable cost and delivered on time. This is truly a two-way open platform that will boost trade between the Mainland and the international markets through Hong Kong.
I would like to congratulate the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Hong Kong Exporters' Association for organising what I am certain will be another very successful fair indeed. I wish everyone an enjoyable and fruitful time in Hong Kong.
Thank you very much.
Ends/Wednesday, April 28, 2004
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