10 September 2002
Value-added Watch and Clock Fair opens today
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Hong Kong's watch and clock industry will continue to scale new heights
with its outstanding tradition of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship,
said Mr. Stephen Ip, Secretary for Economic Development and Labour at the
opening of the Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair 2002 today (September 10).
Mr. Ip said timepieces have become an important fashion and home decoration
component, customised to personal taste. The trend has created new growth
opportunities for the industry.
Also speaking at the ceremony was the Co-Chairman of the Fair Organising Committee
Mr Yip Siu Fan. He noted the industry is facing increasing competitions, particularly
from the low-end market segment, yet Hong Kong is still one of the leading
exporters of watches and clocks in the world. Mr. Yip said watchmakers should
add value to combat economic downturn.
"To maintain competitiveness, Hong Kong companies should move up the value
chain and strive to capitalise on new opportunities arising from the changing
business environment," said Mr. Yip.
The fair jointly organised by the Trade Development Council (TDC), Hong Kong
Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd and the Federation of Hong Kong Watch
Trades and Industries Ltd has continued to grow and maintain its leading status
as the largest of its kind in Asia and the second largest in the world. An
extensive array of timepieces - from clocks and watches to parts and components,
and from machinery and packaging to publications - are on display.
Among the total of 735 exhibitors from Hong Kong and 14 countries and regions
are four group pavilions from the Chinese mainland, Taiwan, Korea and India.
The TDC has also invited 27 buying missions comprise of over 400 companies
from 22 countries and regions to visit the fair.
The fair creates new opportunities for the industry by launching a series
of business matching meetings. Six international fashion labels from Canada,
France, Malaysia and Thailand will network with over 100 Hong Kong exhibitors
in these meetings to explore co-operation opportunities in developing branded
or licensed watches.
The Brand Name Gallery is set to grab special attention from thousands of
local and overseas buyers. The Gallery, now in its third year, continues to
promote original brand manufacturing (OBM) and original design manufacturing
(ODM) business.
Designated for high-end timepieces, licensed or original brand watches, the
Gallery returns with a record-high number of exhibitors. Latest collections
of 28 world-famous and new-found brands will be exhibited at the uniquely
designed area and be featured at daily parades.
A number of special events will be held during the fair period to keep the momentum:
- Cocktail reception scheduled for tonight will be the first climax. Featured
with the theme of "the spirit of time", it also provides opportunities for
industry players to network. Quality local branded watches from the Brand
Name Gallery will be displayed by models in a mini show to promote Hong Kong
design excellence.
- Industry experts will share their insights and knowledge of expanding markets
in Europe, Japan and the Chinese mainland at the Asian Watch Industry Conference
to be held tomorrow. Representatives from the Chinese Government will update
the audience on import regulation and the latest development of watch industry
in the mainland.
- Another not-to-be-missed event is the survey findings presentation in which
up-to-date global market and product trends will be disclosed. The on-site
survey is conducted by an independent consultant Oracle Market Research.
Prizes for the 19th Hong Kong Watch and Clock Design Competition were presented
at today's opening ceremony. Chan Kin-wai wins the open group category with his
"Time Capsule" entry while the winning piece in the student group is "Together",
designed by Cheung Man-chun. All winning entries will be showcased throughout
the fair to illustrate strong design capability and creativity of local talents.
Runs until this Saturday (September 14) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition
Centre, the fair is open for trade visitors only.
Further references:
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For media enquiries, please contact Beatrice Lam of TDC's
Corporate Communication & Marketing Department at 2584 4049.
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