The highly anticipated Hong Kong Computer and Communications Festival is gearing up to kick off on August 23 at the prestigious Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. This year, the festival is offering a special promotion that is sure to attract mainland Chinese visitors – an admission fee of only HK$1 (12 US cents). This limited offer is a great opportunity for tech enthusiasts from across the border to experience the latest innovations in the industry.
Excitement is brewing as the festival is set to welcome a record-breaking 300 exhibitors, the largest number since 2009. Among the exhibitors are 120 software companies from mainland China and countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. This initiative, spearheaded by Beijing, aims to create a trade network connecting economies in Asia, Europe, and Africa, with China at its core.
In a bid to draw more attendees, the festival is partnering with Alipay to offer a limited number of tickets to mainland visitors for just HK$1. In comparison, Hong Kong residents can purchase tickets for HK$5 during the same promotional period. Alipay, a popular payment app owned by Ant Group, an affiliate of Alibaba Group Holding, is facilitating the ticket sales.
Regular admission tickets are priced at HK$35, but certain groups are eligible for free entry, including children under one meter tall, individuals over the age of 65, and holders of a Registration Card for People with Disabilities. Additionally, tourists with valid travel documents can avail of tickets for HK$10 each if purchased at the visitors center of the host site. The first 1,000 tourists to register will receive a HK$100 voucher, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.
To sweeten the deal for attendees, the festival is offering various discounts and promotions. Full-paying visitors may receive coupons ranging from HK$10 to HK$500, while the first 300 Hong Kong residents through the venue door on launch day can enjoy discounts of over HK$2,000 on select products after making a purchase of HK$200 or more.
The festival organizers are optimistic about this year’s event, with Hui Kin-sang, a former chairman of The Chamber of Hong Kong Computer Industry (CHKCI), expressing hopes for a 5% increase in attendance. He emphasized the importance of such promotions in attracting both local and international visitors amidst a trend of Hong Kong residents traveling north for shopping and leisure activities.
Cheung Yiu-sing, the chamber’s founder chairman, echoed these sentiments, noting the potential increase in tourist participation following the pandemic. With a surge in tourism, the festival aims to capitalize on this opportunity to showcase the latest in technology and drive consumer engagement. The event is expected to draw tech enthusiasts and shoppers alike, eager to explore the cutting-edge products and services on display.
In a new approach this year, the festival is shifting its focus from product pricing to highlighting innovative technologies and activities. Cheung emphasized the importance of showcasing new advancements in the industry to stimulate interest and encourage consumer engagement. By emphasizing the fun and educational aspects of the festival, organizers hope to attract a diverse audience, including the youth who may be considering a future career in the tech sector.
One of the highlights of this year’s festival is the debut of an artificial intelligence-themed zone, featuring the latest software innovations in computer vision, machine learning, and gaming applications. Tech giants such as Microsoft, Lenovo, and Samsung are expected to showcase their cutting-edge AI products, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.
Non-profit organization Hong Kong Technology Advancement Group will also host the festival’s first cybersecurity competition, aimed at educating the public on the importance of protecting personal data online. Additionally, a zone dedicated to showcasing innovative technologies in health monitoring, home automation, and entertainment for the elderly will provide attendees with a glimpse into the future of tech advancements.
With a diverse range of exhibitors, interactive activities, and educational opportunities, the Hong Kong Computer and Communications Festival promises to be a must-visit event for tech enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. The festival’s focus on innovation, education, and consumer engagement sets it apart as a leading platform for showcasing the latest in technology trends and advancements. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this exciting event and experience the future of tech firsthand.