Held in Shanghai from March 27–30, the fair is perhaps the largest annual professional gathering for the hospitality industry in China. This year, it was visited by an estimated 250,000 attendees and featured more than 3,000 exhibitors.
The Pacific’s showcase at HOTELEX Shanghai organized by PTI China showcased a range of Pacific brands ranging from artesian mineral water, to coffee, health beverages and all-natural peanut butter.
Mona Mato, Trade Commissioner of PTI China, says HOTELEX presents an amazing array of innovation and opportunities.
“As a region that promotes responsible and sustainable business, it’s important we use events like HOTELEX to showcase trade opportunities in the hospitality industry.
“It helps raise the profile of our clean and green region, the value of our stories and product origin, and our Blue Pacific continent. But it’s important for exporters to know when looking to expand to the Chinese market, then this should all be a part of your planning, strategy and focus. Buyer leads take time to generate traction and from our experience at trade shows, these don’t happen at the one show” says Mato.
Consumers, potential buyers and professionals were particularly drawn to two Pacific brands: Haus Win Coffee from the highlands of Papua New Guinea, and BeBi Natural Mineral Water from Fiji. Both have a highly appealing brand stories, values and product origins.
Haus Win Roastery, known for its dedication to supporting sustainable practices with farmers in Papua New Guinea, was a standout at the fair. With this year’s HOTELEX Shanghai incorporating a dedicated Coffee and Food Festival, hundreds of coffee industry professionals experienced the unique coffee profiles for which Papua New Guinea is celebrated.
BeBi Natural Mineral Water’s presence at the show marked a significant milestone, with the brand adding artesian mineral water sourced from Fiji to its high-end food and beverage range. Visitors drawn to its attractive booth display, praised BeBi for its pure taste and quality.
“BeBi not only provides consumers with a higher quality choice, but it also opens a new chapter for Sino–Fijian business cooperation and cultural exchange,” said Amy Wang, BeBi’s General Manager.
One of the highlights of the event was a visit from the Fijian Ambassador to China, His Excellency Robert Lee, underscoring the growing importance of Pacific brands in the global market. The ambassador’s presence highlighted the strong ties between China and the Pacific region, and the mutual benefits of trade and cultural exchange.
PTI China’s annual participation in HOTELEX is a testament to its commitment to facilitating market entry for Pacific brands and strengthening the economic bonds between China and the Blue Pacific region. PTI China is proud to see the success, exposure and growth of high-end Pacific brands in the market. Brands such as Haus Win Coffee and BeBi Natural Mineral Water create that presence and impact, says Mona Mato.
For more information about PTI China’s initiatives and upcoming events, please contact Yolanda Jiang, Export Manager: Yolanda.jiang@pacifictradeinvest.org.cn