Speech by FS at Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair 2025 (English only) (with photos/video)
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Jenny (Acting Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Jenny Koo), Consuls-General, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
It's a pleasure to join you once again at the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair — a gathering where the world's finest wines and liquors come together in celebration and collaboration.
A heartfelt thank you to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) for organising the 17th edition of this iconic event. This Fair continues to be a global stage for the best in the business.
This annual flagship event has long been a highlight of the international wine and spirits calendar. And this year, it's made even more vibrant by the buzz surrounding our policy change last year: reduction in the duty on high-end liquor. Since this spirited shift, the industry has responded with enthusiasm and pleasing results. The volume of duty-paid liquor imports rose by about 5 per cent, and the value surged by nearly 45 per cent.
I'm particularly excited about the debut of the new "World of Spirits" zone this year, as mentioned by Jenny just now. It brings together top-tier distillers from across the globe, including the renowned baijiu of the Mainland and our very own homegrown craft spirits. Hong Kong has always been an international showcase, and I truly believe local and Chinese products have great potential in the global market.
For the wine lovers among us – and I suspect there are quite many – this year's Fair offers a world of discovery. You'll find the rising stars from high-altitude vineyards in Ningxia, sun-soaked terroirs in Xinjiang, bold reds from Spain, and coastal treasures from Portugal. It's a passport-free trip through some of the world's best wine regions.
But don't stop here. Take your taste buds into the city. Hong Kong is home to Bar Leone, which has recently been crowned the best bar in the world, right in the heart of Central. And what's a good drink without great food? With over 200 Michelin-recommended restaurants across the city, you're never far from a perfect pairing.
With this rich blend of global flavours, satisfying experiences, Hong Kong is not just a place to do business – it's the place to be. We are proud to support the global wine and spirits community as you open up new markets, forge new partnerships, and raise the bar.
The Hong Kong Wine and Spirits Fair is more than a showcase. It's a launchpad. Whether you're here to source the next big label, seal a new deal, or simply enjoy a glass or two of something exceptional — you are most welcome, with open arms and full glasses.
Once again, my sincere thanks to the HKTDC for making this Fair a living, breathing brand of Hong Kong's international spirit.
And before I let you go, a gentle reminder for our local friends: mark your calendars for December 7 — the Legislative Council Elections. Your vote matters. Let's raise our voices, and our glasses, for Hong Kong's future.
Thank you, and enjoy the Fair!
Ends/Thursday, November 6, 2025
Issued at HKT 19:51
Issued at HKT 19:51
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