The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) successfully concluded its first major trade events of 2025: the 51st HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, 16th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair, and 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair. Held from January 6–9 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the fairs attracted over 80,000 buyers from 119 countries and regions, marking a strong start for Hong Kong’s 2025 MICE calendar and economic revival.
Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of HKTDC, remarked, “These fairs have successfully created global business opportunities, connecting over 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries. We witnessed significant growth in buyers from ASEAN countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand, alongside participants from Europe and the Americas.”
Promoting Innovation and Sustainability
This year’s fairs, themed New Play for All, featured expanded zones and a focus on sustainability. With more than 370 exhibitors showcasing Green Leaf-labeled products, an increase of 70% from 2024, the fairs highlighted the industry’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
Key Highlights of the Toys & Games Fair:
- Green Toys Zone & ESG Pavilion:
Funded by the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund, the ESG Pavilion debuted with products incorporating eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices.- Panley (H.K.) Ltd., known for its FSC-certified paper toys, noted a 30-40% increase in buyer visits. Senior Sales Manager Peter Law shared, “The Click2Match platform allowed us to connect with buyers from Europe, the UAE, and the US, projecting a 15% growth in orders.”
- Tech Toys Surge in Popularity:
High-tech toys, including drones and remote-controlled vehicles, remained popular. Odyssey Toys, a US wholesaler, announced plans to purchase US$450,000 worth of products from Chinese suppliers. - Expanding Segments:
The Kidult World zone catered to adult hobbyists with collectibles and models, reflecting the growing demand for “kidult” products. Toys“R”Us Asia Vice President Johnny Mui emphasized the significant opportunities in this segment.
Baby Products Fair: Record Participation and Innovative Offerings
With more than 660 exhibitors, the Baby Products Fair achieved a 7% growth in participation, making it the largest event in its history. The ODM Strollers and Gear Zone returned with over 80 exhibitors, facilitating easy sourcing for buyers.
- i-angel Co., Ltd., a Korean baby carrier brand, used the fair to debut its hipseat baby carriers. CEO Jinseop Lee stated, “We expect at least US$1 million in new orders, connecting with distributors from Canada and Thailand.”
Stationery & School Supplies Fair: A Creative Showcase
The Stationery Fair presented cutting-edge products, from school supplies to creative art materials. Mercanlar Mutfak Esyalari San. Tic. A.S., a Turkish exhibitor, reported active discussions with buyers from Germany, Belarus, and the US, estimating total orders exceeding US$200,000.
Global Networking and Business Matching Opportunities
The fairs adopted HKTDC’s EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, combining physical exhibitions with the Click2Match smart business matching platform. This extended the fairs’ influence to 16 January 2025, enabling global buyers to connect online for seamless trade interactions.
For exhibitors like Panley (H.K.) Ltd., the platform proved invaluable, connecting them with potential buyers ahead of the event. Media Prima Berhad, a Malaysian media group, secured corporate promotional toys worth over US$100,000, showcasing the fairs’ ability to attract cross-industry participants.
Asian Toys & Games Forum: A Focus on Social Responsibility
The Asian Toys & Games Forum, a flagship event of the Toys Fair, explored the theme Beyond Fun and Play: Fostering Social Responsibility in the Toy Industry. Industry experts discussed the evolving role of toys in healthcare, therapy, and aging markets, showcasing the sector’s adaptability and societal impact.
A Bright Outlook for Global Trade
The success of the 2025 HKTDC fairs underscores Hong Kong’s role as a global trade hub, driving innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. With strong participation from international buyers and exhibitors, the events have set the stage for a prosperous year for the MICE industry and global commerce.
