The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in partnership with Exhibition Group and Plaza Premium Group, organized the PATA Power of Networking and Luncheon 2025 on Thursday, February 20, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Hong Kong SAR.
The event convened more than 20 prominent leaders in the travel and tourism sector from Hong Kong SAR and the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Notable attendees included representatives from the Tourism Commission, the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau, the Macao Government Tourism Office, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Shangri-La Group, Trip.com, and the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, among others.
A significant moment of the gathering was the keynote address delivered by Ms. Angelina Cheung, JP, Commissioner for Tourism of the HKSAR Government, who introduced the “Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0.” This strategic initiative articulates Hong Kong SAR’s ambition to reinforce its status as a leading global tourism destination by merging tourism with culture, sports, ecology, and major events.
Following her speech, Ms. Cheung engaged in a fireside chat and an interactive Q&A session. The event was further enhanced by the attendance of Mr. Soon-Hwa Wong, PATA Ambassador for Greater China, highlighting PATA’s dedication to fostering connections with its members in Hong Kong SAR and the GBA.
After to the event, participants attended the official inauguration of the Hong Kong Holiday & Travel Expo 2025, a business-to-consumer event showcasing more than 300 booths. This four-day exhibition achieved a remarkable attendance milestone, drawing over 250,000 visitors, which represents a 27% rise in foot traffic compared to the prior year.
Soon-Hwa Wong, PATA Ambassador for Greater China, stated, “The PATA Power of Networking event serves as a vital platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and drive the future of travel and tourism across the Asia Pacific. With Hong Kong SAR’s strategic position as a global tourism hub, this event fosters meaningful connections among tourism stakeholders.”
He added, “PATA is proud to collaborate with Exhibition Group and Plaza Premium Group to strengthen public-private partnerships and ensure the continued growth and resilience of the tourism sector.”
Stephen SY Wong, Partner at Exhibition Group, said, “Today’s luncheon highlights the collaborative spirit essential for advancing Hong Kong’s tourism industry. We can learn a great deal from Angelina and the ‘Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0.’ Thank you to PATA for supporting and gathering like-minded individuals; it’s a valuable networking opportunity with industry professionals.”
Linda Song, Executive Director at Plaza Premium Group, said, “Our collaboration with PATA and Exhibition Group for the PATA Power of Networking Luncheon underscores our dedication to nurturing meaningful partnerships that propel the travel industry forward.”
She added, “Plaza Premium Group began its journey in Hong Kong 26 years ago. Since then, we have been expanding to align with the city’s growth in aviation and tourism, offering a diverse range of airport experiences, including lounges, restaurants, and premium passenger services. We look forward to being part of the next phase of growth and continuing to make travel better for everyone travelling through Hong Kong.”