Hong Kong’s position as a regional wine and spirits trading hub is set to strengthen with the opening of the 17th Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair on 6 November for a three day run at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the event will showcase beer, sake, spirits, wines, low- and non-alcoholic beverages presented by 620 exhibitors from 21 countries and regions with a significant increase in Chinese baijiu exhibitors.
The event builds upon last year’s reduction in liquor duties which had a positive impact and encouraged diversity in offerings, according to HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Jenny Koo. She highlighted the introduction of a new World of Spirits zone to spotlight this growing segment.
The zone will feature a wide array of spirits, including Chinese baijiu, brandy, gin, rum, tequila, vodka and whisky.
Chinese baijiu is set to be a standout feature, with six of the Top 10 Chinese Baijiu Brands participating. The lineup includes Kweichow Moutai from Guizhou province, Yanghe from Jiangsu province and four brands from Sichuan province - Wuliangye, Luzhou Laojiao, Jian Nan Chun and Langjiu.
The six powerhouses will unveil their latest product innovations including a new edition from Luzhou Laojiao and the launch of a new baijiu from Guojiao 1573.
Homegrown spirits are also on the rise with a growing number of Hong Kong-created whisky, gin and liqueur brands actively pursuing international expansion opportunities. Their presence at the fair reflects the city’s evolving role not just as a trading hub, but as a producer of distinctive, locally inspired spirits.
Spirits will also feature prominently in the seminar and events programme which kicks off with the 2025 China Baijiu Culture International Promotion Asia Forum on 6 November. The busy event schedule culminates with a Baijiu 101 Class on the last day of the Fair to educate the public on baijiu culture, tasting methods and aroma types.
As in past years, distributors and producers of fine wines will present their latest wares including Martin & Ann Arndorfer Anina Verde, a top-tier Austrian natural wine, and Italy’s Don Carlo vineyard, known for its unique brewing process that spans over three years.
Numerous activities related to wine will accompany the exhibition including the presentation of the Cathay Global Wine and Spirits Award Asia, seminars and tasting sessions. Wine exhibitors will also compete for best in show titles judged by local sommeliers.
Beyond wine and spirits, other beverages on show include Japanese sake, such as Hyakusyun Junmai Daiginjo crafted from naturally farmed rice, and low-alcohol cocktails like those from Punch Club OÜ of Estonia. These offerings will be complemented by a range of gourmet foods, snacks and cheeses in the Friends of Wine zone, all designed to enhance the tasting experience.
On 8 November the Wine Fiesta zone will open its doors to public ticket holders aged 18 or above to sample and buy a range of wines and spirits, and enjoy seminars and masterclasses. Ticket buyers will receive a Lucaris crystal wine glass on a first-come, first-served basis — a perfect keepsake for wine lovers.