Wendy Lai has been elected the new chairman of the HKECIA. She is the first woman to lead the association in its 36-year history and succeeds Stuart Bailey who has stepped down after ten years at the helm. Bailey was named Honorary Life President in recognition of his contribution to the association and the wider industry. Lai’s appointment was confirmed at the association’s AGM on 29 May.
Lai has served on the HKECIA executive committee for several years, most recently as executive vice-chair, and brings over two decades of exhibition industry experience to the role. As vice-president of Global Sources Exhibitions, she heads the organiser’s international sourcing shows in Hong Kong. She said she was committed to working closely with members, the wider industry, and the government.
Lai noted Hong Kong’s exhibition industry had demonstrated resilience and adaptability. “We have seen a strong resurgence of large-scale exhibitions, with event numbers not only recovering but, in many cases, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This is a clear testament to Hong Kong’s enduring appeal as a premier international business and trading platform.”
She noted that the government’s incentive initiatives had played a critical role in the pot-Covid recovery, enabling organisers to launch innovative themed exhibitions while scaling up established flagship events. “These collective efforts have further strengthened Hong Kong’s unique position as the MICE hub of the Greater Bay Area and reaffirmed our long-standing status as the Trade Fair Capital of Asia,” Lai said.
And she said that Hong Kong was up for the challenges ahead, with the global economic outlook remaining uncertain and intensifying regional competition presenting significant challenges.
“Against this backdrop, our mission remains clear and unwavering – to ensure that Hong Kong continues to serve as a leading international gateway connecting East and West,” said Lai. “This will require us not only to reinforce the strength of our established trade fairs, which form the bedrock of our global reputation, but also to actively expand our international reach and enhance our value proposition to exhibitors and visitors alike.”
The Association, she noted, stood ready to work hand in hand with the government to develop forward-looking, sustainable support measures that will help the industry navigate volatility and seize emerging opportunities. She said she was confident the industry would unlock new avenues for growth and elevate Hong Kong’s standing as a world-leading exhibition and trade hub.
Source: www.exhibitionworld.co.uk
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