The opening of the Hong Kong International Communications Electronic Chamber (HKICEC) Global Mobile Exchange Pavilion at AsiaWorld-Expo on October 18 marks a significant step forward for the region's digital trade infrastructure. By establishing a dedicated physical and digital meeting place, the chamber aims to unite businesses across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, pooling critical industry resources and opening new channels for international collaboration.

The inaugural trade show focused heavily on the international trade of mobile devices and related electronics, drawing cross-border buyers and suppliers from around the world. The initiative highlights Hong Kong's strategic positioning as a gateway that connects regional manufacturing powerhouses with global markets, while fostering discussions on the circular economy and environmentally sustainable trade practices.

High-Profile Support for Regional Trade Initiatives

The opening ceremony on October 18 welcomed a distinguished gathering of government officials and industry leaders, reflecting strong institutional backing for the chamber's mission. Among the prominent attendees were:

  • Dr. Starry Lee Wai-king, GBS, JP, member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and president of the Legislative Council
  • Zhu Xiaodong, director of the Kowloon District Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR
  • Dr. Cheung Kwok-kwan, SBS, JP, deputy secretary for justice of the HKSAR
  • Liu Maozhou, first-level inspector of the Economic and Financial Affairs Department II of the Liaison Office
  • Denny Ho, district officer for Kwun Tong of the Home Affairs Department
  • Liu Fang, chief executive officer of Global Sources

More than 100 government and business representatives, industry leaders, local and international exhibitors, and members of the media attended the ceremony. This high level of participation underscores the industry's growing interest in developing Hong Kong's circular economy and expanding sustainable international trade in the communications and electronics sectors.

The Launch of Crab2B and Digital Trade Integration

A central highlight of the exhibition was the official debut and app launch of Crab2B, a pioneering B2B trading platform dedicated to mobile devices and digital products. Led by CEO Luo Yaohong, who also serves as the deputy secretary-general of HKICEC, Crab2B is designed to streamline cross-border sourcing and help local merchants expand their international reach.

During the exhibition, Legislative Council President Starry Lee Wai-king and Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan visited the Crab2B booth to learn about the platform's business model, objectives, and progress. Both officials praised the platform's approach to capitalizing on Hong Kong's unique strengths, drawing on the extensive resources of the Greater Bay Area, and reaching global markets. They noted that the platform creates new momentum for digital trade by connecting the Greater Bay Area's supplier network directly with international buyers.

The platform also received strong backing from HKICEC's leadership team. Chamber president Jacky Tse, permanent honorary president Huang Shaowu, chairman Huang Shunyong, and supervisory board chairman Hong Jinhuang met with the Crab2B team to discuss future development plans and expressed their ongoing support for the platform's growth.

Strengthening the Greater Bay Area Ecosystem

The successful launch of the trade show and the Crab2B app represents a milestone in HKICEC's long-term strategy to build a major industry gathering hub in Hong Kong. By providing a dedicated space for suppliers and buyers to connect, the chamber is helping businesses identify suitable partners, explore new trade channels, and forge partnerships to drive future growth.

Looking ahead, HKICEC plans to continue bringing together businesses and resources across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area while expanding its international trade network. Crab2B will remain rooted in Hong Kong, leveraging the chamber's relationships and resources to further develop its application and expand its market reach. Through these collaborative efforts, both organizations aim to facilitate cross-border trade in mobile electronics, open new international markets for local businesses, and support the modernization of Hong Kong's communications and electronics industry. Their shared goal is to create lasting commercial opportunities and contribute to the sector's long-term growth.