Header
facebook linked in Subscribe Now
Summer has arrived to shine on the Converging Possibilities of Hong Kong where the first quarter of 2012 has recorded a 4.6 per cent growth of overnight MICE arrivals.

It is no wonder that Asia's premier MICE destination heralded in the Art month of May and hosted successful art events ART HK 12 and Spoon Art Fair; and record breaking events such as Nu Skin to be held in June. More than just MICE, Hong Kong is overflowing with possibilities including the upcoming festive Summer Spectacular and the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival. Read on to learn more about why Hong Kong with its choice of top world-class venues, infrastructure and attractions should be your next MICE destination!
MICE arrivals to Hong Kong surpass 300,000 in first quarter of 2012
Hong Kong welcomed over 300,000 overnight MICE visitors in the first quarter of 2012, a rise of 4.6 percent from the same period last year. Short-haul markets including North Asia and Taiwan rose by 9.8% while the long-haul overnight arrivals exceeded 80,000, representing an increase of 3.7% over the same period a year ago with Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific region showing 7.2% and Europe showing 6.0% growth or over 40,000 visitors.

In the second quarter, MEHK will build on the momentum as host to mega international MICE events including the Asian Attractions Expo and the 2012 JCI Asia-Pacific Conference Hong Kong in June, as well as the NU SKIN Greater China Regional Convention and the FDI World Dental Congress.
Asia's Art Hub
For the fifth year, ART HK 12 took place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 17 – 20 May with the very best in contemporary art from 266 galleries representing 39 international territories. Widely acknowledged as Asia's premier networking platform in the international art community, ART HK brought together leading collectors, curators, artists and galleries from across Asia and the rest of the world.

This year, two special sections were introduced: ASIA ONE dedicated to showcasing the latest developments in contemporary art from across Asia, while Art Futures showcased the works by emerging artists represented by 35 of the world's most exciting new galleries.

The success of ART HK 12 reflects the increasing importance of the Asian art market and the fact that Hong Kong is now the world's third most important art market.
Visualising Art at Home
From 18 – 20 May, Spoon Art Fair HK12 was hosted at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong exhibiting a brand new style artwork using hotel rooms as the venue instead of traditional white walls. The event was hosted by KS Art Co, organizer of Asia Top Gallery Hotel Art Fair which aims to promote the work of young, talented artists with over 40 leading international galleries. Art pieces are showcased in windowsills, walls, beds and even in bathtubs of 56 hotel rooms.

Special exhibitions included the "My First Collection", "The Unreal Reality” by NOH Jun, "Universe of Imagination” by JANG Seung-Hyo, "Seasons Come and Seasons Go” by CHOI Yongdon, "A Little Song of Life” by OH Myung-hee and "Beyond the Border” by emerging artists.
Shipping in Success
Hong Kong played host to nearly 1,000 container logistics, transport and port industry executives from Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa, Middle East and the Americas for the TOC Container Supply Chain Asia 2012 conference and exhibition. Held on 13 – 15 March, the event was kicked off by a keynote address from Eva Cheng, Hong Kong Secretary for Transport and Housing. The three day event was hosted under the theme banner of “Intra-Asia: The Road Ahead” in order to take stock of immediate and longer term prospects at a time of continued uncertainty in world markets. Participants attended successful talks about reliability, responsiveness and communications. The TOC Container Supply Chain Asia will return in 2013 from 12-14 March at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Smart Technology
Held on 28 – 29 March at the AsiaWorld-Expo, nearly 2,800 visitors attended CARTES in Asia, a must-attend event dedicated to card manufacturing, payment, security, identification and mobility solutions. As the third year of CARTES in Asia, participants were pleased to meet 115 exhibitors and 72 speakers on NFC & contactless applications, e-transactions & e-banking, mobile payments, ID and government security, RFID and the internet of things. Exhibitors from 23 countries descended on Hong Kong to showcase their applications and solutions to decision makers across Asia Pacific. The winner of The Asian SESAMES Awards, which rewards the most innovative smart technology product or application developed for the Asian Pacific market, was awarded to Mainland China's company, Watchdata for their breakthrough NFC solution.
Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, established in 1996, is an unique institution charting the historical development of medical sciences in Hong Kong and managed by Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences Society. Events planners can organize their exhibitions, educational activities, or private functions in different venues with the unique settings of a historical monument. MICE visitors can also reserved their space to join the guided tour – The Taipingshan Medical Heritage Trail covers the some key scenic spots in the museum. Special facilities include the Old Laboratory showcasing the work of the Old Pathological Institute, medical laboratory, famous Hong Kong Pathologists as well as the Herbalist Shop and Herbal Garden which showcase Chinese herbal medicines, the traditional Chinese medical practitioner's equipment.
Familiarising You with Hong Kong
MEHK continues to welcome and host industry experts from all over the world to experience Hong Kong's Converging Possibilities. While in Hong Kong, the industry experts experienced its diverse facilities, hotels and tourist/social offerings. Throughout March, fam tours from around the world descended on Hong Kong including 70 MICE experts from Japan, South Korean and China who gained valuable insights of Asia premium MICE destination via attractions, facilities and hotel tours. From US and Canada, Hong Kong was host to 17 incentive planners and media for business generation with 43 local trades. Across the pond, over 15 MICE experts from UK and Europe arrived to meet local partners, experience the signature sports event, the Hong Kong Sevens and discover the Converging Possibilities of Hong Kong.
Training and Speaking for the Future
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) has a total of 399 member agencies and MEHK invited a professional conference organizer to conduct the training for this untapped market on March 19. Training for 36 members highlighted the strengths of social service in Hong Kong while information was shared as trainers summarized best-of managing techniques for conferences. Working together with MEHK, there was also emphasis of support for future tenders. This was the first collaboration with the social service sector to partner together with MEHK in inviting new events to Hong Kong. Dr John Y.C. Fung, Business Director, HKCSS, also presented his own business plan to engage more HKCSS member agencies to organize regional conferences and events in the future.
Promoting China MICE to the World
IT&CM China, Shanghai's premier MICE show was held 17 – 19 April providing a platform for 380 Chinese and international leading players from 40 territories and over 2,000 trade visitors to meet together. MEHK participated the show with 14 trade partners which were greatly received. As well, MEHK hosted buyers' luncheon “Hong Kong – Converging Possibilities Luncheon” which was held on 18 April which was set to further promote meeting and incentive travel in Hong Kong with a dragon dance as kick off performance. The lunch focused on introducing the latest developments of much anticipated new cruise terminal to the buyers.
Premier Roadshow to India
For the very first time, MEHK organized a dedicated India MICE Roadshow to Mumbai and New Delhi from 24 – 26 April. In recent years, more airline carriers have started flying to provide more frequent and affordable air connections which have brought the two destinations closer together. As a growing market, the roadshow was aimed at raising the awareness and profile of Hong Kong MICE offerings as the Converging Possibilities destination to India travel trades who showed a keen interest in the variety of facilities and experiences the city has to offer. As well, the roadshow was the perfect platform to foster business opportunities for Hong Kong partners as 21 MICE partners meet with close to 200 Indian trades for full-day, free-flow travel mart and networking sessions.
Summer Spectacular promises something for everyone!
This two month extravaganza, spanning from 22 June to 31 August, is the perfect opportunity to bring your group to Hong Kong as a sure-fire way to ensure they leave with big smiles on their faces and extra change in their pockets! Shoppers will get excited enjoying an array of top-up privileges lined up especially for the Summer Spectacular, as well as snapping up bargains at the sales all over town. There's also a Hong Kong Super Shopper competition offering marvellous prizes on top of the unique experience of just being in Hong Kong. City-wide sales at fashion outlets, mouth-watering discounts at restaurants, hot street parties and events, spectacular shows and special promotions all add up to Hong Kong as the perfect destination for your next meeting and convention.
Paddle's Up, Beer Stein's Up!
Located on the famous Victoria Harbour, the waters around Hong Kong will be reverberating with the sound of beating drums as the sight of splashing paddles from teams near and far prepare for the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival. This traditional sport centres around the 10 metre boats, which have ornately carved and painted "dragon" heads and tails, and carry a crew of 20-22 paddlers. It's a rocking six-day party on 2 July and 4 to 8 July which will feature hot live entertainment and a cool beer garden. The much anticipated event is a feast for the eyes, ears and senses that combines exhilarating competitions, traditional customs and colourful entertainment. Join the cheering fans on the East Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade as local and international teams paddle furiously for the chance to win.
Team up to join Oxfam Trailwalker Hong Kong 2012
In partnership with Oxfam Hong Kong, MEHK exclusively offers 20 overseas corporate teams to participate in the Hong Kong Oxfam Trailwalker on 16-18 November this year. Held in 11 countries around the world, the event is a popular international fundraising events. Walkers in teams of four are required to take up the challenge of walking 100 km under 48 hours and raise a minimum of HK$6,800 in donations. MEHK aims to collaborate with travel partners to promote this initiative to MICE groups and business visitors who are planning Hong Kong corporate events. It will be a unique and meaningful team building and corporate social responsibility event for participating teams. Registration closes on 24 July. Detailed information can be found on HKTB PartnerNet website.
Asian Attractions Expo 2012, 5-8 June
From 5 – 8 June, the premier conference and trade show for the attractions industry in Asia Pacific, Asian Attractions Expo 2012 will welcome more than 4,500 industry professionals from 60 countries to Hong Kong to celebrate the largest trade show International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has ever hosted in Asia. And with its sold-out floor with 6,000 square meters, will showcase amusement and theme park rides, architectural and design services, food and beverage innovations, coin-operated games, skill games and redemption prizes from more than 275 companies from 30 countries. Prior to the Expo, the Institute for Attractions Managers will take place in Asia for the first time, also at HKCEC. The programme will help aspiring industry professionals to equip themselves with the knowledge to advance their careers through the latest information in finance, revenue operations, safety, marketing, and human resources.
JCI Asia Pacific Conference 2012, 7-10 June
From 7 – 10 June , the Junior Chamber International Asia Pacific Conference (JCI ASPAC 2012) will be held in Hong Kong with an estimated 4,200 participants. The JCI, a group founded nearly 100 years ago, hosts the JCI World Congress as well as regional conferences in Africa and the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, the Americas and Europe for young people in more than 115 countries with 200,000 members worldwide. At these events, members from different areas and regions unite together to share their experiences, to learn through training and form intercultural connections. The idea is to empower young people with the tools, resources and opportunities to collaborate on future projects, share ideas and develop a plan for how each JCI participant can best meet the needs of their own hometown.
The 4th Retail Asia Expo, 12-14 June
As Asia-Pacific is both the largest and fastest growing retail market in the world, Hong Kong is proud to host the only retail-focused Expo, the 4th Retail Asia Expo to be held on 12 – 14 June. The Expo will showcase the latest retail trends and products, including world-class technology solutions, trendy shop design and effective visual marketing. Events for the three-day Expo include a multi-channel retailing conference, gala dinner, senses-generate-sales designer showcase, innovative design material gallery and seminar. The Expo brings together world-class technology and retail design suppliers to an audience of retail professionals eager to keep up with the latest trends and industry developments in a market that is changing more rapidly now than ever before. Since 2009, the expo has been a leading platform for retail leaders in Asia Pacific.
Nu Skin Greater China Regional Convention, 13-15 June
For the sixth time since 2003, the Nu Skin 2012 Greater China Regional Convention will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo between 13 - 15 June 2012 utilizing all exhibition halls and Asia World-Arena. This record-breaking convention will be the largest event in its history, bringing 20,000 distributors from Mainland China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. Operating in 52 markets worldwide, Nu Skin Enterprises is one of the world’s largest direct selling companies which provides premium-quality personal care products and nutritional supplement. The three-day event will compose of vary programs including an award ceremony, product exhibition, VIP reception and seminars. MEHK is proud to provide support through tailor made souvenirs as well as arranging dedicated immigration counters for delegates at the Hong Kong International Airport.
International Travel Expo, 14-17 June
As Hong Kong's only Travel and MICE exhibition, held at HKCEC from 14 - 17June, the annual International Travel Expo Hong Kong (ITE & MICE) will feature over 30 official pavilions, some 600 exhibitors from 50 countries and regions, and informative seminars everyday. Exhibitors range from short and long haul attractions, destinations, hotels, resorts, travel agents to airlines. ITE & MICE is noted for its highly international profile as it is estimated the ITE will attract over 10,000 regional visitors in two trade days and 70,000 visitors in two public days. Besides leisure, highlighted themes include MICE, cruise and honeymooning, special tours and travel themes like Wellness & Medical Tourism, MICE and travel agents zone are particularly convenient for onsite bookings.
The 12th Asian Conference on Clinical Pharmacy, 7-9 July
To be held on 7-9 July, the 12th Asian Conference on Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP 2012) is co-organized by the School of Pharmacy, Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association. The theme for this year's conference is “Citius, Altius, Fortius: appraising clinical excellence, nurturing eminent practice” with the Latin translation meaning “Faster, Higher, Stronger”. Like Olympic athletes, pharmacists need to maintain high competency and commitment in the profession to ensure medication safety. Throughout the years, ACCP has been dedicated to promoting clinical pharmacy practice, education and research in Asia. In conjunction with the conference, an exhibition featuring the latest information, products, equipment and educational materials in pharmaceutical will be held concurrently with the conference.
Special meeting package at The Cityview
The Cityview launches a special offer on meeting package at only HK$268 (half day 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm) or at HK$368 (full day 9am-5pm) from now to 30 June with a minimum booking of 20 persons. This includes buffet lunch at The City Café, complimentary continuous serving of coffee and tea throughout the meeting, morning and/or afternoon coffee break with two kinds of refreshments, use of all meeting and AV equipment, stationery amenities and WiFi access.

Enquiry: banquet@thecityview.com.hk
Make meetings more rewarding at Conrad Hong Kong
A list of rewards has been drawn up to add value to your events held in Conrad Hong Kong. These include exclusive benefits such as 5% rebate off master bill, 30% off meeting room rental for a subsequent meeting, additional 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points, complimentary cocktail reception and more.

Booking has to be confirmed before 31 August 2012. Certain terms and conditions may apply.

Enquiry: +852 2521 3838 (Ms. Niana Mak) niana_mak@conrad.com.hk
The Langham, Hong Kong offers summer special package
From 6 May until 10 September 2012, The Langham, Hong Kong offers summer special packages starting from HK$1,980 per room per night plus 10% service charge and a daily minimum of 10 rooms. Perks include one night's accommodation (single occupancy), a full-day meeting package from 9am to 5pm including a choice of Western or Chinese-styled luncheon and two coffee breaks, welcome fruit plate, daily local newspaper, in-room tea/coffee making facilities, access to the roof-top Mediterranean styled swimming pool and 24-hour gymnasium.

Enquiry: +852 2378 9313 or hkg.sales@langhamhotels.com
2012 full day meeting package at Le Meridien Cyberport
With 17 state-of-the-art high ceiling conference and entertainment venues with abundant natural day light, Le Meridien Cyberport boasts an inspiring location for both brainstorming meetings and professional presentations. Its superb 2012 Full Day Meeting Package priced only HK$650 per person per day from now to end of 2012 with benefits like: full day usage of Function Room from 9am to 6pm, one buffet luncheon, two themed coffee breaks and healthy snacks, complimentary WiFi available inside all meeting venues and standard meeting equipment including LCD projector and screen. Please quote “MEHK MICE bonus offer” for the entitlement when making the group booking.

Enquiry: +852 2980 7802 or sales.lmc@lemeridien.com
Superb meeting discount of Park Hotel Hong Kong
Valid from now until 31 December, 2012, Park Hotel offers full-day meeting package at HK$450 per person plus 10% service charge. Benefits include use of function room from 9am.to 5pm, full buffet lunch at Park Café, two coffee breaks with refreshment and use of LCD projector, microphone & PA system, DVD player.

Booking for a meeting with at least 8 rooms, you will be entitled to enjoy complimentary use Internet service during the meeting, 10% off the bill, self-service coffee machine and 20% off meeting room rental for next meeting that takes place within one year.

Enquiry: (Ms Carman Wong) carman.wong@parkhotelgroup.com
Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers
Book by 30 June 2012 to receive Power Up Rewards at Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers for meetings up till 30 September 2012. These cover 20% guestrooms attrition and complimentary upgrade to Colour Your Plate signature meeting break menu.

Conditions apply like minimum 20 rooms staying for 2 nights must be booked, and group contract must be signed by 30 June 2012 and actualized on or before 30 September 2012. The offer is not valid with any room blocks or meetings currently booked, under negotiation or that have already occurred.

Enquiry: +852 2732 6706 or karina.ting@sheraton.com
 

We are sending you this e-news because your company has opted in to receive the latest information of Hong Kong Tourism Board. If you find the information is useful to your colleagues, please feel free to forward the e-news to them. If you would like to opt-out from receiving any further information from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, please click here.

Every effort has been made to provide up-to-date facts but the HKTB shall not be responsible for any inadvertent mistakes, omissions or information changes. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. Hong Kong Tourism Board, 9th - 11th Floors, Citicorp Centre, 18 Whitfield Road, North Point, Hong Kong


Copyright © 2012 Hong Kong Tourism Board
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Contact Us | e-newsletter