Canadian authorities have adopted more stringent requirements for certain mercury-containing products in an effort to meet the requirements of the Minamata Convention and in some cases go beyond those requirements.

The lighting industry is currently characterized by a widespread sentiment of positivity and hopefulness, according to an HKTDC on-site questionnaire survey of the 507 exhibitors and buyers at the inaugural Smart Lighting Expo and the Spring Edition of the 2024 Hong Kong International Lighting Fair. Most of the traders and industry participants who were surveyed expressed confidence in the market prospects.

Hong Kong exports a wide range of lighting products, including table, bedside, floor-standing and portable lamps. Hong Kong’s total exports of lighting products contracted by 7.0% year-on-year in 2023, after the decrease of 24.1% in 2022. The major export markets were the US, the EU, mainland China, Canada, Japan and ASEAN.

A prevailing sense of optimism fills the lighting market, according to an HKTDC on-site questionnaire survey of the 764 exhibitors and buyers at the Autumn Edition of the 2023 Hong Kong International Lighting Fair. Most traders are confident with the market prospects and expect overall sales to increase in 2024 and 2025, along with a rise in the retail price of the lighting products.

Japanese companies have a long-standing presence in Hong Kong dating back to the early 20th century, with many operating from this strategic business hub for more than 50 years. One of those is the lighting solutions provider Ushio Inc. In an interview with HKTDC Research, Yasunori Sugiyama, vice chairman of the company’s Hong Kong-based subsidiary Ushio Hong Kong, explained how Hong Kong continues to play a strategic role for Japanese businesses, and mapped out its plans for future.

In the run-up to the HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair, it appears that sustainability is set to be one of the event’s defining issues.

HKTDC Research interviewed Anas Al-Haj, Managing Director, Qatar of Crystal Palace Lighting, about the latest market trends and development in the Middle East lighting industry, as well as emerging opportunities for Hong Kong companies.

Canadian authorities are seeking public input through 9 March 2023 on a proposal to adopt more stringent requirements for certain mercury-containing products in an effort to meet the requirements of the Minamata Convention and in some cases go beyond those requirements.

With overseas arrivals freed from quarantine obligations, hopes are high that Hong Kong’s exhibition sector is set for imminent revival.

HKTDC conducted face-to-face interviews with 454 industry practitioners attending the Autumn Edition of the 2021 Hong Kong Electronics Fair and Lighting Fair to discover how electronics and lighting traders are planning their sourcing and sales strategies in 2022 and beyond.