Vinexpo Asia 2026 drew more than 14,000 trade professionals as confidence in Asian wine and spirits markets remains strong.
Held in Hong Kong from 26 to 28 May, Vinexpo Asia 2026 welcomed more than 14,000 trade professionals from 76 markets, signalling the continued importance of Asia-Pacific for wine, spirits and emerging no-alcohol categories despite ongoing global economic challenges.
The event at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) featured exhibitors from 38 producing countries. The figures represent growth from the previous Hong Kong edition in 2024, which welcomed visitors from 59 markets and exhibitors from 35 producing countries.
Nine countries exhibited at the event for the first time: Austria, Belgium, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Moldova, Slovakia, Tunisia and Uruguay. The exhibition floor also featured a wide range of regional and national pavilions, including France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, California and Oregon in the United States, Portugal’s Tejo region and Spain’s Castilla y León.
With a history in Hong Kong dating back to 1998, Vinexpo Asia (which takes place alternatively in Singapore and Hong Kong) has long served as a key meeting point for producers, importers, distributors, retailers and hospitality professionals seeking opportunities across Greater China and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
“With Vinexpo Asia, Vinexposium strengthens its foothold in Hong Kong, an essential gateway to Greater China – a historic market for the wine and spirits industry and a key market for the future. This edition reflects the continuity of our ties with Asia and our ambition to make Hong Kong a lasting point of convergence for international producers, local stakeholders and the Asia-Pacific region,” says Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium.
Hong Kong’s Strategic Role
The 2026 edition marked the 10th edition of Vinexpo Asia in Hong Kong. The event once again received strong institutional support, including backing from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and was officially opened by Dr Bernard Chan, the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong SAR Government. Other VIP guests included the French Ambassador and the Ambassador of the European Union, H.E. Mr Bertrand Lortholary and H.E. Mr Harvey Rouse, 25 consuls general and trade advisors from 18 countries, as well as representatives of international chambers of commerce.
The exhibition’s regional reach remained one of its defining strengths. Around 75 per cent of attendees came from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macao and established markets such as Japan and South Korea. Participation from Southeast Asian markets including Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam also increased.
Vinexposium further expanded its network of industry partnerships, working with 28 local and regional associations, up from 19 in 2024. The partnerships helped broaden engagement with importers, distributors, sommeliers and other trade professionals across Asia.
Spirits and No-Alcohol Categories Gain Momentum
One of the most notable developments at this year’s event was the continued expansion of Be Spirits and the growing visibility of Be No, two formats designed to reflect changing consumer behaviour across Asia.
Be Spirits, dedicated to spirits, beer, cider, sake and mixology, saw significant growth. The platform brought together 105 exhibitors from 18 countries, compared with just 13 exhibitors in 2024. International exhibitors accounted for 89 per cent of participants, up from 63 per cent at the previous edition. The category’s growth mirrors broader consumer trends across Asia, where demand for premium products, authenticity and innovation continues to reshape the beverage landscape.
The 2026 edition also welcomed three new pavilions from Australia, Japan and South Korea, further highlighting the increasing international appeal of the spirits segment.
Meanwhile, Be No demonstrated the rising profile of alcohol-free beverages. Although still in its early stages, no-alcohol products accounted for one in 10 exhibitor references at the exhibition, reflecting growing consumer interest in moderation and alternative drinking options.
Knowledge Sharing Through the Academy
Alongside the exhibition, the Vinexpo Academy returned with a programme of 25 masterclasses and conferences. The sessions explored a wide range of topics affecting the industry, from changing consumer behaviour and distribution channels to developments in hospitality and on-trade markets. Be Spirits was given dedicated visibility through specialised content, including discussions on how consumer insights are influencing bar experiences and brand strategies across Asia.
The educational component remains a key pillar of Vinexpo Asia, providing industry professionals with opportunities to gain market intelligence while strengthening business connections.
Looking Ahead
As Vinexposium approaches three decades of activity in Asia, the organisation is preparing for a new phase of development in the region. Building on the momentum of the 2026 edition, the group plans to provide greater consistency and long-term value for exhibitors and trade professionals through a revised regional strategy.
“The market is calling for greater stability. From 2027, our ambition is to establish Vinexpo Asia as an annual event in a single Asian hub, in line with the needs of our clients and the long-term development of the industry,” concludes Rodolphe Lameyse.
For now, the strong attendance figures, expanding international participation and growing diversity of beverage categories suggest that Asia remains firmly on the radar of global wine and spirits producers. As consumption patterns evolve and new categories emerge, Hong Kong continues to serve as a key platform connecting international producers with opportunities across the region.
For more information, visit the Vinexpo Asia website
