Hong Kong studies aid push for centre - Nov/Dec 00

By Stephanie Roberts HONG KONG The Hong Kong government has conducted a feasibility study into another exhibition and convention centre for the Special Administrative Region. "The government is keen for such a centre and the study points to the airport area at Chek Lap Kok," said Hong Kong Tourist Association convention and exhibition bureau senior manager Ms Mabel Hung. "The Airport Authority is studying how to use the land and a convention and exhibition centre is definitely on the agenda." Ms Hung said the bulk of Hong Kong's conference, exhibition and incentive industry were keen for a different centre, which would complement the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Hong Kong International Trade and Exhibition Centre. "We are looking for investors, although the centre probably won't be developed until 2005." Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Organisers and Suppliers Association chairman Mr Louis Cheng argued Hong Kong needs another exhibition centre much sooner than 2005. "We have taken the matter to the Legislative Council," Mr Cheng said. "In the past two years, Hong Kong's exhibition market has grown because the exhibition space has doubled. If we have even more space, the market would increase even further." Mr Cheng said Hong Kong still has to turn down business during the peak season due to lack of exhibition infrastructure.