The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) kicked off its 60th anniversary celebrations on May 31 with the launch of the "Design Gallery on the Move" campaign, a mobile exhibition that will tour 16 locations across Hong Kong from May 29 to June 18. The initiative showcases original Hong Kong brands and design products, aiming to highlight the creativity, diversity and vibrancy of the city's design scene to both residents and visitors.
The campaign features 36 Hong Kong brands and over 60 products organized into six thematic zones: DG Delights – Hong Kong themed, DG Discover, DG Delights - IP, DG Green, DG Luxe, DG Silver Market & DG Mini. These zones reflect the diversity of Hong Kong design, from intellectual property and sustainable products to luxury items and products for the silver market. Visitors can purchase items at Design Gallery's physical stores or online, and during the campaign, online shoppers receive discount coupons.
Professor Frederick Ma, HKTDC Chairman, drew a parallel between the mobile exhibition and the council's early efforts to promote Hong Kong products globally. "As early as 1967, we travelled to Africa to promote Hong Kong products, converting a cargo truck into a mobile exhibition," he said. "Later, when we led the Hong Kong toy industry to participate in the renowned Nuremberg International Toy Fair in Germany but were unable to secure exhibition space, we set up a temporary showroom outside the venue using the same approach, bringing Hong Kong toys onto the international stage. This flexible, resilient and can-do attitude embodies the Lion Rock spirit of Hong Kong."
The "Design Gallery on the Move" campaign carries forward this vision by bringing original Hong Kong brands into local communities, showcasing the creativity and strengths of local SMEs. The HKTDC's 60th anniversary is significant as it underscores the council's role in supporting Hong Kong enterprises to expand globally over six decades. The implications for the industry are substantial: by promoting local design and brands, the HKTDC helps SMEs gain visibility and access new markets, which is crucial for Hong Kong's economic diversification and innovation.
To further celebrate its anniversary, Design Gallery is offering promotions including a "60 items at 40% off" campaign at its Wan Chai Convention and Exhibition Centre store from May to July, featuring 20 selected items each month across categories such as gifts, homeware and fashion accessories. Design Gallery promotes around 400 Hong Kong brands annually through its online and offline platforms.
The HKTDC has planned a series of themed initiatives for its anniversary, including "Catch the 60th Anniversary-themed Tram", the "Next 60 Forum", a cocktail reception, a special giveaway during the Hong Kong Book Fair, a community art co-creation event, and the "HKTDC 60th Anniversary Exhibition". These initiatives span exhibitions, community engagement and industry activities.
The campaign's impact extends to residents and visitors, who can discover unique stories behind local brands. For the design industry, it provides a platform for testing new products and building brand awareness. The HKTDC's ongoing efforts, including its presence on major mainland e-commerce platforms since 2010 and expansion into ASEAN markets last year, demonstrate a sustained commitment to helping Hong Kong brands reach a broader international customer base. More details about the activities can be found at HKTDC's 60th Anniversary Celebration Activities page and the Design Gallery Online Shop.
