The 46th Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and the 29th electronicAsia concluded with more than 61,000 buyers from 141 countries and regions, underscoring Hong Kong's enduring appeal as an international trading hub and a critical platform for connecting global innovation and technology industries with international markets. The four-day events, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and MMI Asia, highlighted surging demand for AI and robotics technologies, with over 120 robots showcased and a new Future Industries Zone drawing strong interest from technology companies and investors.
The fairs featured more than 3,200 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions, and the HKTDC organised 130 buying missions involving buyers from 65 countries, including Samsung Electronics and SSG.com from Korea, Mercado Libre from Argentina, and Reichelt Elektronik from Germany. This global participation reinforces Hong Kong's position as a two-way investment and business hub, with the HKTDC also promoting the city through international exhibitions and conferences that create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
A survey of over 1,150 buyers and exhibitors revealed that 96% expect overall sales to increase or remain stable over the next 12 to 24 months, with the most promising growth opportunities identified in ASEAN (83%), the Middle East (83%) and the Chinese Mainland (81%). More than 74% of surveyed companies are already applying or planning to apply generative AI technologies, and nearly 60% see AI as the technology that will have the greatest impact on the industry over the next two years. These findings signal a sector actively diversifying its business footprint and embracing digital transformation, with AI emerging as a key driver of competitiveness.
The newly introduced Future Industries Zone spotlighted five themes: Future Computing, Future Manufacturing, Future Marine & Quantum Technologies, Future Microelectronics, and Future Wellness. It brought together over 100 companies, including Hong Kong's Xeroptix Technology Limited, which presented AI brain technologies for robots and expects potential orders worth over US$1 million. The GoGlobal Connect Zone supported Chinese Mainland enterprises seeking to expand overseas by offering financing, intellectual property, compliance, logistics and risk management services. Silas Chu, HKTDC Associate Executive Director, noted that the zone's popularity reflects strong demand from Mainland enterprises to leverage Hong Kong's professional services and its unique role as a bridge connecting industries with global markets.
The fairs also served as a launchpad for product debuts, such as VIGX Technology's pocket-sized AI-powered exoskeleton robot, which attracted nearly 1,000 visitors in the first two days. Start-ups like Fliq, an AI-powered news verification app, connected with around 30 potential investors and secured two strategic cooperation opportunities. International buyers, including Pixel Electric from Kenya and Hayamax from Brazil, finalised substantial orders, demonstrating the fair's effectiveness in fostering cross-border trade. The HKTDC continues to support such activities through its trade publications and research reports, ensuring businesses stay informed about market trends.
As Hong Kong's October exhibition season continues, the HKTDC will organise the Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo, and Eco Expo Asia later this month. These events align with the Hong Kong SAR Government's policy emphasis on accelerating innovation and technology development, promoting AI adoption, and strengthening Hong Kong's position as an international trade centre. With the online editions of both fairs remaining open until 23 October, the momentum for global business matching and collaboration extends beyond the physical event. For more information on HKTDC's initiatives, visit their digital news channels or the HKTDC Media Room.
