Hong Kong worry over centre funding delays

By Stephanie Roberts HONG KONG The Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Organisers' and Suppliers' Association (HKECOSA) is still waiting for a government response to its latest economic study, urging a decision on the funding for a third exhibition and convention centre. HKECOSA, which represents more than 90% of Hong Kong's key industry players, is concerned there has been no significant progress on the issue. It will continue lobbying the government until it invests in the centre. "We want the government to get on with it before Hong Kong loses out on major conferences and trade shows," HKECOSA chairman Mr Louis Cheng said. Mr Cheng pointed to the government's financial support when the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai was constructed. "It gave the Trade Development Council land and funds to build the HKCEC. It is double standards," Mr Cheng added. The report stated this inconsistency makes some in the industry doubt whether the government is serious about building the facility. It also raises questions over whether officials recognise the contribution of the exhibition industry to Hong Kong's economy or whether they have evaluated the costs of not moving forward. However, the Hong Kong Tourist Association convention and exhibition bureau senior manager Ms Mabel Hung pointed to a government study concluding there was room for a privately developed centre at the airport, but it was unlikely before 2005. The Airport Authority Hong Kong is waiting for a feasibility study into the building of a centre adjoining the airport at Chek Lap Kok to be completed.