The current social unrest in Hong Kong has not yet affected plans for the upcoming trade shows presented by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).
During a meeting with representatives from The Toy Association and members of the media in New York City, HKTDC’s Ralph Chow, regional director, Americas, doubled-down on Hong Kong’s continued position as an effective center of global business. HKTDC stages large-scale trade fairs and conferences servicing several industries. From July to October, the organization successfully ran 14 events, attracting nearly 192,700 buyers and nearly 13,000 exhibitors.
The HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair will run concurrently with the Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and Hong Kong International Stationery Fair, taking place from Jan. 6-9.
With tensions rising in the region, The Toy Association says that it has been receiving numerous reports of member concern and conflicting views on how the anti-government protests may affect global business travel to Hong Kong in the coming year.
“The Toy Association will continue to closely monitor the ongoing situation in Hong Kong, seek member feedback, and keep members updated as developments come to light,” says Steve Pasierb, Toy Association president & CEO. “We welcome all members of the industry to share their thoughts and perspectives on the topic at info@toyassociation.org or with your usual staff contact.”
While the trade fairs have not yet been impacted, the HKTDC is offering “enhanced transport and customer support services” for exhibitors and attendees to all shows.
Chow says that “safety is a top priority at all HKTDC-organized events, with special security measures put in place to respond to different situations.”
Both the HKTDC and The Toy Association will monitor developments in the weeks and months ahead.
