https://www.scmp.com/rss/33108/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Chinese investment in Australian real estate has grown by almost 60 per cent in the past two years, with buyers and developers focusing largely on Sydney and inner-city Melbourne. Huge interest from cashed-up Chinese buyers has been a major driver for house prices in some suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne to rocket by as much as 27 per cent over the past year. The median house price in Sydney rose by 15 per cent last year. Australian media headlines often trumpet the multimillion-dollar sales of... https://www.scmp.com/article/1445297/investors-pour-property-market?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1445297/investors-pour-property-market?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Mar 2014 07:59:18 +0000 The slowdown in Chinese growth - to a still-impressive and better-than-expected 7.7 per cent - has certainly hurt Australia's economy. The country expanded its mining capacity as Chinese growth rocketed. Now, as China's expansion slows, global commodity prices have fallen and Australia's economy is growing at a slower pace as mining investment crumples. But that doesn't mean that Australian exports to China have fallen, according to news reports. China's economy is much larger than it was just a... https://www.scmp.com/article/1445296/mining-still-solid-despite-slowdown?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1445296/mining-still-solid-despite-slowdown?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Mar 2014 07:57:32 +0000 Mainland residents have become the world's biggest travellers and the biggest spending travellers. A total of 97 million mainland tourists left the country last year and about 700,000 headed Down Under - where they splashed out in excess of A$4 billion (HK$27.76 billion) during their average eight to 12-day trip. But within six years it is anticipated that mainland tourists' spending will be closer to A$20 billion. So, a fall in Chinese inbound visitor arrivals last November has sent shockwaves... https://www.scmp.com/article/1445289/illegal-shopping-tours-crackdown-leads-fall-chinese-visitors?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1445289/illegal-shopping-tours-crackdown-leads-fall-chinese-visitors?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Mar 2014 07:51:26 +0000 Asia's largest houseware fair and a home textile fair are showcasing their most exciting range of innovative products and services to date, and drawing enthusiastic buyers from across the globe. The HKTDC Hong Kong Houseware Fair and Hong Kong International Home Textiles and Furnishings Fair, on until Monday at the Convention and Exhibition Centre, traditionally offer an abundance of sourcing opportunities with thousands of home-related products. 'The increase in affluence of people all over the... https://www.scmp.com/article/998682/fairs-expand-meet-demand?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/998682/fairs-expand-meet-demand?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Exquisitely crafted fine-bone china porcelain, a decadent reversible dog coat with removable faux chinchilla fur collar, and a fat-free potato crisp maker are just a few of the innovative new products to be showcased at this year's fair. Also, in line with the environmental concerns dominating home ware industry trends, one creative exhibitor is showcasing a green alternative to plastic or melamine - bamboo. This year's event promises to feature a versatile range of ready-made household... https://www.scmp.com/article/998681/innovative-products-show-no-lack-imagination?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/998681/innovative-products-show-no-lack-imagination?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 With the LED lighting market expanding rapidly across the globe, this edition of the lighting fair's Hall of LED is set to be bigger and better than ever. 'A huge focus is continuously put on both LED lighting and green lighting in today's environmentally conscious world,' says Joel Tse, media relations executive for exhibitions at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. 'New developments in LED and other energy-saving devices are coming thick and fast, and it is important for buyers to keep... https://www.scmp.com/article/997552/warm-glow-expanding-rapidly-across-globe?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997552/warm-glow-expanding-rapidly-across-globe?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Visitors to the spring HKTDC Hong Kong International Lighting Fair could be forgiven for thinking they have dropped in on a famous artist's exhibition, or that they are getting a sneak peek into a hi-tech home of the future. That is if the range of innovative and creative products to be showcased at the event, from today until Monday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, are anything to go by. A floating bulb that rotates with the help of cutting-edge electromagnetic levitation... https://www.scmp.com/article/997553/citys-event-shine-brightly?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997553/citys-event-shine-brightly?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 The region's busiest and most influential buyers have the debut of the Origin Africa pavilion to look forward to at Interstoff Asia Essential's spring fair. Interstoff Asia Essential 2012 is Africa's first venture into Asia's prime sourcing destination for niche apparel fabrics and accessories. Finn Holm-Olsen, director, East and Central Africa Trade Hub, says Interstoff Asia is the group's first textiles and apparel trade show outside the United States. 'We view Interstoff Asia 2012 as an... https://www.scmp.com/article/995192/trade-show-will-witness-debut-african-textiles?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/995192/trade-show-will-witness-debut-african-textiles?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Asia's most respected sourcing destination for niche apparel fabrics and accessories turns 25 in Hong Kong this year, and a host of exciting events have been arranged to celebrate the milestone. Interstoff Asia Essential's spring fair, which is being held from Wednesday to Friday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, has been leading the way in developing the regional textile industry since 1987. To mark the achievement, some special events have been organised by the region's... https://www.scmp.com/article/995193/still-height-fashion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/995193/still-height-fashion?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Sufficient sleep is vital for a healthy body and mind. In Shakespeare's time, people averaged nine hours' sleep a night. The age of electricity has reduced the average sleep time by two hours, which is too little for many of us to sustain our well-being. 'We live in a society here in Hong Kong that places little value on a phase before sleep called 'relaxation',' says Hong Kong sleep expert Graeme Bradshaw. 'Relax before bedtime from 9pm with reading, music, friendly conversation, or massage.... https://www.scmp.com/article/989703/lifestyle-tips?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/989703/lifestyle-tips?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000 It can improve your mood, fend off illness and help you perform better at work. Is it a magical potion? No, it's an old-fashioned, healthy night's sleep that many of us take for granted. Nevertheless, for the millions worldwide who suffer from chronic insomnia, sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, the daily pursuit of a healthy nightly shut-eye can become a frustrating, elusive dream. 'Sufficient sleep is vital for a healthy body and mind,' says Hong Kong sleep expert Graeme Bradshaw.... https://www.scmp.com/article/989705/overcoming-insomnia?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/989705/overcoming-insomnia?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Queensland To the Christmas holiday maker, the sun-kissed Queensland experience represents Australia at its best. From its stunning beaches on the Gold Coast, to the magnificent national parks and, of course, the world-famous Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland offers a great alternative to the traditional wintry Yule experience. Queensland's Tourism Minister Jan Jarratt has noted that growth in the mainland market continues to buoy the state's tourism industry, with Chinese... https://www.scmp.com/article/986597/head-south-sun?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/986597/head-south-sun?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Now in its ninth year, the Business of Design Week (BODW) promises to be especially exciting and vibrant this time around with design powerhouse Germany stepping up to partner the event. Top designers, businesses and industry leaders worldwide will converge at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from November 28 to December 3 to share their expertise. 'This is the must-attend platform in Asia that allows the exchange of ideas for the world's most innovative thinkers and business... https://www.scmp.com/article/984905/germans-share-their-expertise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/984905/germans-share-their-expertise?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Many Australian businesses have contributed to a better environment. RepuTex (HK), which scooped this year's CLP Sustainable Development Award, is a leader in sustainability investment in Asia and carbon market intelligence. '[In] 2005 the company was partnered by the International Finance Corporation, a subsidiary of the World Bank, to prepare a sustainability risk framework for local and multinational companies operating in China,' says Martha Grossman, RepuTex's director for Asia. The Hong... https://www.scmp.com/article/983131/firms-show-way-sustainability?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/983131/firms-show-way-sustainability?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 From footwear and food and beverage items, to online children's products and environmental consultancy services, Australian companies have promoted their products and built their brands in Hong Kong and the mainland. Take Hocusadabra, an online collection of creatively and consciously curated products that care for, entertain, and educate children, which was a finalist for this year's Austrade Business Promotion Award. 'We source independent, sustainable, organic and healthy products,' ... https://www.scmp.com/article/983129/getting-message-across?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/983129/getting-message-across?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 With Asia a major producer of sports-related products, Sports Source Asia is the place to find the latest in garments, shoes, accessories and a range of sports and fitness equipment. The event's fifth edition runs from tomorrow until Saturday at AsiaWorld-Expo, and expects to host around 180 international exhibitors, with pavilions for India, South Korea, Taiwan and debutants Pakistan. 'In 2010, the fair attracted over 6,700 buyers from 93 countries and regions,' says a fair spokesman. 'Buyers... https://www.scmp.com/article/982905/sporting-chance-all-players?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/982905/sporting-chance-all-players?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Despite challenging economic times across the globe, the building materials market is booming, with exports climbing 14 per cent during the first half of this year alone, says the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). This sets the scene for a bumper HKTDC Hong Kong International Building and Decoration Materials & Hardware Fair taking place this week and around 150 exhibitors from around the world are expected to attend. Running for its sixth year, the fair takes place from tomorrow... https://www.scmp.com/article/982908/business-booming?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/982908/business-booming?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Sports Source Asia presents a wonderful opportunity to network with fellow industry players and to gain an overview of the status of sporting goods in the commercial world. Outdoor Sports Zone makes its debut, showcasing innovative outdoor sporting goods and accessories, and to introduce technology. Fitness Zone highlights all kinds of fitness-related equipment and accessories. Premium Zone houses sports brands in an environment to boost brand recognition and encourage sales. Seminars inform... https://www.scmp.com/article/982909/meeting-zones-strong-competitors?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/982909/meeting-zones-strong-competitors?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Since Sports Source Asia (SSA) was launched four years ago, exhibitors keep returning to Hong Kong for the world's premier sporting goods fair. 'We have participated in SSA every year since the first edition in 2007,' says Kenny Lin, international business manager at mainland company Fujian Hongxing Erke Sports Goods. 'The fair can be a good platform for seeking new and qualified buyers and partners, as well as a good opportunity for brand promotion and marketing.' Matthew Tam, chief... https://www.scmp.com/article/982907/exhibitors-return-hk-rematch?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/982907/exhibitors-return-hk-rematch?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Demanding travel schedules mean comfort and luxury are priorities for the many executives who use the region's major airlines. The onboard indulgences offered by the region's most respected airlines help ensure their flying experience is a pleasure. Raising the bar in luxury travel are the Singapore Airlines suites on board the A380, a new product that features a luxurious leather chair, fully adjustable to fit sitting or lounging positions with a simple-to-use control panel, and a full-sized... https://www.scmp.com/article/982210/skys-limit-luxury?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/982210/skys-limit-luxury?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 If the ever-changing world of textiles is your business, this season's Interstoff Asia Essential - at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre starting on Thursday - is not to be missed. The Interstoff Directions Trend Committee will present its apparel fabric trend forecast for next season's wardrobes and one of the world's top trend forecasters, Sachiko Inoue of Tokyo - who is also a committee member - will be in charge of the trend forecast for autumn/winter 2012/13 from... https://www.scmp.com/article/980821/fabrics-and-prints-focus-trend-forecasters?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/980821/fabrics-and-prints-focus-trend-forecasters?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Imagine owning a watch that is not only elegant, unusual, beautiful and functional, but also protects health. That is exactly what innovative entrepreneur and designer Christie Wo has come up with in the Chouette Teslar watch collection, due to be shown at the Brand Name Gallery of the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair. Wo's Chouette Teslar watch contains a pioneer Teslar chip designed to emit a 7 to 9 Hertz Alpha wave signal which interacts with and strengthens the human body's own electromagnetic... https://www.scmp.com/article/978300/new-collection-helps-cut-electronic-pollution?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/978300/new-collection-helps-cut-electronic-pollution?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 The latest work of fabulous Japanese artist and designer Sasu is sure to be a highlight of the city's watch fair this year. If you are a person who loves beauty, and the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness, the 'Untitled' collection has been crafted just for you. Sasu's design has been individually created using her graffiti image as the dial of the watch. Each piece comes with a stainless steel case and silicon strap. 'Untitled' has been released under the brand name Zerone and will be... https://www.scmp.com/article/978299/artists-work-sure-be-highlight?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/978299/artists-work-sure-be-highlight?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Hong Kong has put itself in a unique position to promote the timepiece industry across the mainland, particularly after China granted all the city's products tariff-free status under the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement. Last year, Hong Kong's watch and clock exports increased by 32 per cent, with the European Union and Switzerland accounting for more than 60 per cent of exports. In view of the industry's optimistic outlook, many manufacturers use the Hong Kong Trade Development... https://www.scmp.com/article/978298/timeless-quality-display?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/978298/timeless-quality-display?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 In the half-century since its independence from Britain, Malaysia has nurtured a thriving tourism industry that now attracts millions of visitors a year, and has made tourism one of the country's top foreign exchange earners. 'Tourism is a large and fast-growing sector in Malaysia with strong positioning globally,' says Baizuri Baharum, director of Tourism Malaysia, Hong Kong. 'Tourism industries in Malaysia employ 1.7 million workers - 16 per cent of total employment.' Last year alone,... https://www.scmp.com/article/977631/tourism-major-revenue-earner?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/977631/tourism-major-revenue-earner?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Aug 2011 16:00:00 +0000 With Hong Kong firmly positioned as Asia's fashion hub, this year's Hong Kong Trade Development Council's Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer is poised to host some of the world's most respected suppliers, brands and designers. Now in its 18th edition, Fashion Week runs from today until Thursday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. It will showcase finished garments, designer collections, fashion accessories and textiles. After last year's event drew more than 23,000 buyers... https://www.scmp.com/article/972503/citys-stylish-temptations?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/972503/citys-stylish-temptations?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Taking place concurrently at the Convention and Exhibition Centre will be the 8th Hong Kong Trade Development Council's Summer Sourcing Show for Gifts, Houseware and Toys. This synergy is expected to attract more buyers to both fairs, at which they can enjoy an excellent one-stop sourcing experience. One of the highlights of this year's Summer Sourcing Show is the Treasure Island zone, bringing together top-quality exhibitors displaying design-led brands and collections. 'The creativity of... https://www.scmp.com/article/972502/event-source-satisfaction-buyers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/972502/event-source-satisfaction-buyers?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Thirteen years ago, Linda Wills stood on an idyllic Malaysian beach, stared across the South China Sea and made a tough decision. Recently widowed, Wills faced the dilemma of whether to remain at the remote beach resort she had intended to refurbish and run with her diver/photographer husband, Daniel, or return home. Daniel was killed in a boating accident in 1993 and, alone in a foreign country with two small children, Wills seemed to have little choice but to go back to England - or so... https://www.scmp.com/article/541910/gypsy-queen?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/541910/gypsy-queen?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Mar 2006 16:00:00 +0000 'Oooh my God! That thing is huge! Don't move, let it crawl off your head. Mavis ... come and look at this! It's huge!' Mavis trots over excitedly, joined by an equally eager group of jungle trekkers, each trying to peek at the multi-legged, multi-coloured monster arachnid perched elegantly on the rim of my fake Gucci sunglasses. If you are going to step out into the wilds, especially into something as intense and magnificent as Malaysia's Taman Negara, one of the world's oldest tropical... https://www.scmp.com/article/519719/its-jungle-out-there?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/519719/its-jungle-out-there?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Oct 2005 16:00:00 +0000 The revamp of Singapore's holiday island, Sentosa, is expected to see the place attracting eight million visitors a year, generating S$900 million ($4.15 billion) by 2012. Shopping is a Singaporean national pastime and staying there for any length of time means the visitor can easily morph into a shopaholic. Unsurprisingly, therefore, the manicured beaches of the city-state's seaside zone often remain embarrassingly empty, especially, and strangely, at weekends and on the sunniest... https://www.scmp.com/article/505938/pleasure-island?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/505938/pleasure-island?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Jun 2005 16:00:00 +0000