Forging global connections, embracing opportunities arising from AI, and expanding cross-border production collaborations topped the agenda for some 8,000 industry professionals at the 30th Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART) and EntertainmentPulse, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) from 17 to 20 March.
Over 790 exhibitors from 38 countries and regions – a record-high – filled the exhibition hall bringing together enterprises from nearby markets such as Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, and film markets further afield including Europe and the Americas, underlining Hong Kong’s magnetic appeal as a nexus for cultural diversity and artistic exchange.
Among the many first-time exhibitors was Singapore-based COL International Group. General Manager Timothy Oh noted that FILMART plays a key role in helping companies expand their international networks, citing new business partners he had met from Turkey, the UK, the US, and Brazil. “Hong Kong’s role as an international hub helps create a bustling market with many business opportunities for those looking at innovation and what’s next,” he said.
For the first time, the fair welcomed exhibitors from Belgium, Poland, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Uzbekistan. Myanmar film production company aTwentyThree selected FILMART as its launchpad to explore the international market, according to founder Arker Soe Oo. He said the firm had connected with distributors from the US and Europe and planned to bring more productions to the event next year.
A highlight was the AI Hub which featured leading AI-driven production companies showcasing their latest technologies and solutions, drawing strong interest from buyers and potential partners from around the world.
Zhihan Zhang, Founder and CEO of Daogu Culture Limited, remarked: “Whether it is AI animation, short dramas, or digital humans, the key to the future lies in a global strategy. FILMART gathers global industry professionals, builds connections and enables us to better understand the diverse needs of overseas markets.”
In addition, the newly established AI Academy, supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and the Film Development Fund, received strong interest, with 19 thematic workshops equipping industry professionals with practical AI skills and insights into emerging trends.
Producers Connect – jointly organised by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Hong Kong Film Development Council and the HKTDC – brought together more than 100 producers for networking sessions, discussions and workshops, fostering cross‑regional creative collaboration and opening new pathways for global market expansion.
Two major forums held alongside FILMART – EntertainmentPulse and the Digital Entertainment Summit – examined key trends shaping the global film, television and entertainment technology sectors, with industry leaders sharing insights on AI, streaming, short‑form content and financing to help the sector capture emerging opportunities.
Meanwhile, the FILMART Online IP Catalogue featuring more than 2,200 creative IP projects will remain open until 27 April, enabling industry participants to continue exploring business opportunities and partnerships beyond the fair.