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Tuesday, November 18
09:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Greater Bay Area Local Tours - Fully Booked
Networking
Exclusive Tours for UFI Congress Participants (included in the registration fee)
This is a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic Greater Bay Area, one of Asia’s most vibrant and fast-evolving regions, just ahead of the official start of the 92nd UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong.
🌟Macao MICE Environment Experience Tour, duration: 9:00 - 19:30 - The tour is fully booked.
🌟Zhuhai Business & Culture Discovery Tour, duration: 9:30 - 18:00 - The tour is fully booked.
As places are limited (first-come, first-served), early registration is strongly encouraged.
04:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Room 201C - level 2
Board of Directors Meeting (by invitation only)
Board of Directors
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Board of Directors Dinner (by invitation only)
Networking
Wednesday, November 19
08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Hall 2 ground floor and Level 2
Networking Refreshments
Networking
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
UFI Chapter Meetings (UFI Members only)
UFI Chapter Meeting
- Europe Chapter Meeting - Room 201B - level 2
- MEA Chapter Meeting - Room 204 - level 2
- Asia-Pacific Chapter Meeting - Room 201C - level 2
- North America Chapter Meeting - Room 203 - level 2
- Central & South America Chapter Meeting - Room 202 - level 2
10:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Room 201A - level 2
Associations Committee Meeting (by invitation only)
Associations Committee
10:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Speed Networking – Extended and Enhanced
Networking
Turbo-charge your networking!
Join us for a one-hour Speed Networking session and have up to 10 meetings, designed to spark meaningful conversations and open new doors.
Powered by Expoplatform, for this session you do not need to register in advance, you just show up on the day to register and check-in.
Please bring your own device and make sure you can access the email inbox you used for registration to participate fully.
12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Light Lunch
Networking
01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
General Assembly (UFI Members only)
General Assembly
02:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Networking Break
Networking
03:00 PM - 03:15 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Modern Fairs Still Run on Analog
Xchange Session
Today’s fairs showcase digital ambition—but too often still run on analog processes behind the scenes. From PDF forms to traffic chaos, many fairgrounds struggle with the basics. In this session, we’ll walk through real examples you’ll recognize instantly.
Whether you manage logistics, exhibitor services, or event operations, bring your experience. From manually printed access badges to inconsistent stand information or last-minute service changes, let’s talk about what’s broken—and what’s possible when we fix it as a team. We’re here to start a conversation, understand your challenges, and explore how we can solve them—together.
Leon Funke
Rolf Schulte Strathaus
03:15 PM - 03:30 PM
What Makes the Ideal MICE Destination? Insights from managing Singapore’s largest purpose-built MICE venue – Singapore EXPO
Xchange Session
Explore what truly defines the perfect MICE destination. From world-class facilities and seamless connectivity to a vibrant culinary scene and more, join us as we uncover the key factors that make a destination ideal for global meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions.
Sim Lim Ng
03:30 PM - 03:45 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
AI-Driven Event Photography Playbook: Real-Time Content, Real-Time Engagement, Real-Time Impact (Case Study with Vinitaly)
Xchange Session
Every event generates thousands of photos - but most of them are never used. Expect a concrete case study from Vinitaly, Europe’s leading wine exhibition, on how AI is reshaping communication & marketing teams approach visual content and event photography during major events.
In this session, you’ll discover how AI:
- Shifted the role of photographers from image capture to real-time storytelling and strategic content creation.
- Enabled comms and marketing teams to manage visual content dynamically.
- Streamline speaker visibility, VIP management, and exhibitor engagement.
We'll share data from the field and actionable lessons to easily deploy AI on your events.
Youssef Mouadine
Adolfo Rebughini
03:45 PM - 04:00 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Networking Break
Networking
KUEHNE+NAGEL Table Tennis Tournament
The Table Tennis Tournament is back for this year at the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong.
Find a partner and sign up with a Kuehne+Nagel team member onsite.
Tournament schedule:
- Wednesday, November 19 at 15:45 – 16:00
- Thursday, November 20 at 11:00 – 11:45 and 15:00 – 16:00
- Friday, November 21 at 11:00 – 11:45
Winner Announcement: Friday, November 21 at 16:00 (main stage).
04:00 PM - 04:15 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
AI-Driven Event Revenue: The New Playbook (Case Study with ReThink HK)
Xchange Session
How does AI drive more than 20 sponsor enquiries in just 3 weeks? How will the sales team perform with an AI assistant by their side?
Sponsorship is evolving fast. Organizers today must deliver measurable ROI, meaningful engagement, and real value for their sponsors. In this session, discover how EventX’s Sponsor AI Agent empowers event organizers to transform sponsorship from manual coordination into intelligent, data-driven engagement.
Joined by the Founder of ReThink HK, one of the region’s leading events for climate action and sustainable development, we’ll show how AI automation generated qualified sponsor meetings, boosted satisfaction, and built a scalable model for success. Step into the next era of sponsorship, where intelligence drives impact.
Sum Wong
Chris Brown
04:15 PM - 04:30 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
How to Make Profit By Building Modular?
Xchange Session
As a global leader in modular stand building solutions, Aluvision has spent over two decades helping the exhibit and event industry evolve—shifting from traditional custom-built structures to smarter, more flexible modular systems. This transformation isn’t just about sustainability or convenience; it’s a strategic move towards greater profitability.
In their keynote, Emmanuel Hamelinck, International Sales Director and Daan Ruysschaert, Business Development Manager at Aluvision, will explore how building modular enables organisers to increase profit margins—by optimising efficiency, reducing costs, streamlining logistics and unlocking creativity without compromising on visual impact.
Emmanuel Hamelinck
Daan Ruysschaert
04:30 PM - 04:45 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Mapping the Modern Event: Data-Driven Insights on Networking, Sponsorship, and the Future of AI
Xchange Session
In an era defined by uncertainty and transformation, how can events continue to deliver measurable value that drives growth? Drawing on data from over 600 trade show organizations and media companies, Bob Chain (Global Head of Strategic Accounts at Swapcard) and Nina Xiao (Vice President of Digital and Marketing for Informa Markets Asia) unpack fresh insights on networking, event engagement, and exhibitor ROI, offering a clear roadmap for “future-proofing” events in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Robert Chain
Nina Xiao
07:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Hall 11 - ground floor
Welcome Reception - Step Back in Time! Celebrate 100 Years of UFI in 1920s Style!
Networking
Join us at AsiaWorld-Expo for an unforgettable Welcome Reception as we kick off the UFI Congress with a dazzling celebration of UFI’s 100-year journey. Inspired by the glamour and spirit of the exciting Twenties, the evening will transport you to a world of jazz, elegance, and energy, a fitting tribute to the decade in which UFI was born.
Enjoy a night of live entertainment, signature food and drinks reflecting both 1920s charm and Hong Kong flair, and a chance to connect with peers from around the globe in a spectacular setting. This centennial celebration is not to be missed!
And make sure to join the Golden Raffle for a chance to win great prizes from Visit Detroit!
It’s the perfect way to start the Congress and an evening you’ll definitely want to be part of.
Dress Code
For those wanting to embrace our Centenary celebrations you can dress in Roaring Twenties fashion - flapper dresses, pearls, and headbands for ladies, and suits, and bow ties for gentlemen. Add a vintage touch and get ready to celebrate the decade UFI was born! We will have a selection of props available for those with limited luggage capacity.
Thursday, November 20
06:30 AM - 07:45 AM
Meeting point at 6:30 AM in the lobbies of the Regala and Marriott hotels
UFI Sports Club
Networking
Start your congress day with energy and balance at the UFI Sports Club! Join fellow delegates for two refreshing morning activities designed to boost both body and mind before a busy day of sessions.
Choose between a Running Session, perfect for all fitness levels, or a Tai Chi Session!
The Tai Chi session will be led by Master Sifu Chui Shing Yip Jeff, an expert instructor who will guide participants through gentle movements that promote focus, flexibility, and inner calm.
UFI Sports Club T-shirts will be provided.
About Sifu Jeff
Sifu Chui Shing Yip Jeff has practiced TaiChi for over 20 years. Initially attracted to TaiChi as a low-impact exercise, Sifu Jeff soon discovered its depth as a sophisticated martial art that offers invaluable benefits to both body and soul.
Being an IT Professional, the increasing work challenges over the years led Sifu Jeff to seek balance, which he found in TaiChi Chuan. This ancient art provided him with the mental relaxation and physical coordination, proving to be a perfect antidote to work-
life stress. Sifu Jeff’s journey from a corporate professional to a revered TaiChi Master is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the transformative power of TaiChi.
Sifu Jeff’s dedications in TaiChi inspired many to explore the profound benefits of this martial art, where TaiChi is more than just a physical exercise, it is a holistic practice that harmonises the mind, body and spirit. Jeff’s Teaching emphasises the importance of mental relaxation, physical coordination, and the deep philosophical underpinnings of TaiChi.
08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Networking Refreshments
Networking
09:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Opening of the 92nd UFI Global Congress
Session
The Honourable Paul Chan Mo-po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP
Fred Lam Tin-fuk, GBS, JP
Dr Peter Lam Kin-ngok, GBM, GBS
09:30 AM - 10:20 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Building Community in the Age of Global Transformation
Keynote
The next decade will be the most transformative in human history. As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and societies navigate unprecedented change, we face a striking paradox: we're more connected than ever, yet starved for deep relationships and meaningful encounters.
In this keynote, Dex Hunter-Torricke, one of the global tech industry's leading thinkers on AI explores how the events industry is uniquely positioned to become the catalyst for navigating this great transition. The solutions to tomorrow's challenges will emerge from bringing people together in surprising ways that forge meaningful new connections needed to unlock breakthrough thinking. From immersive technologies to radical new formats, and the embrace of cutting-edge strategic thinking calibrated to a unique moment in human history, Dex reveals how events can create the conditions where collective intelligence flourishes and humanity's shared challenges finally meet their match.
Dex Hunter-Torricke
10:20 AM - 11:00 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Future-first: How Leading Organisers Are Redesigning the Exhibition Experience
Session
This session will explore how exhibition organisers are responding to changing customer expectations and the pressures to innovate. Panellists will share practical examples of how they are evolving event formats, improving content delivery, enhancing sustainability and using customer insight to shape the future of their shows.
Moderator: Panittha Buri, Vice President, Bhiraj Buri Group
Panittha Buri
Peter Hall
Stefan Rummel
Helen Woodbridge
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Networking Break
Networking
KUEHNE+NAGEL Table Tennis Tournament
The Table Tennis Tournament is back for this year at the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong.
Find a partner and sign up with a Kuehne+Nagel team member onsite.
Tournament schedule:
- Wednesday, November 19 at 15:45 – 16:00
- Thursday, November 20 at 11:00 – 11:45 and 15:00 – 16:00
- Friday, November 21 at 11:00 – 11:45
Winner Announcement: Friday, November 21 at 16:00 (main stage).
11:05 AM - 11:20 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Bate-papo Corner: From Asia to AI: A CEO’s Take on the Future of Events
Talk
Join us for a candid conversation with Greg Hitchen, CEO of Terrapinn, as he reflects on the past, present, and future of the events industry. Greg will share his personal journey, including the role Hong Kong has played in his event life, and offer insights into the evolving business opportunities across Asia. The discussion will also explore mergers and acquisitions — including what Terrapinn looks for — and the transformative role of artificial intelligence. Looking ahead, Greg will share his perspectives on the future of events, blending personal insights, industry trends, and bold ideas in an engaging and conversational style.
About Bate-Papo Corner
Running alongside the networking break, Bate-Papo (bah-tchee-PA-poo) is an informal space for dynamic, small-group conversations. Inspired by the Portuguese term for “chat,” it empowers attendees to shape the dialogue and learn from each other in an open, participatory setting. Located in the heart of the coffee and networking area, it’s the perfect spot for candid exchanges and sharing insights. All sessions recordings will be converted to "UFI Bate-Papo Unplugged" podcasts and shared to Spotify.
Gregory Hitchen
11:20 AM - 11:40 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Bate-papo Corner: Decoding the Top 20: The Dynamics Behind the Rankings
Talk
Stax's annual ranking of the world’s Top 20 exhibition organizers offers more than a snapshot of revenue—it reflects evolving strategies, structural shifts, and competitive dynamics shaping the future of the industry.
Stax's Managing Director Florent Jarry will be interviewed by TSNN's Danica Tormohlen to take participants beyond the charts and explore various topics and trends; why some organisers are growing faster than others, profitability and how that has been trending post Covid, and why, event models and how these have been evolving - 1:1 and “B2B festivals” in particular.
The session culminates in an Ask Me Anything (AMA) with Florent — an open forum where delegates can ask their toughest questions about growth strategy, mergers and acquisitions, new market expansion, and the future of exhibition business models. Nothing is off the table.
About Bate-Papo Corner
Running alongside the networking break, Bate-Papo (bah-tchee-PA-poo) is an informal space for dynamic, small-group conversations. Inspired by the Portuguese term for “chat,” it empowers attendees to shape the dialogue and learn from each other in an open, participatory setting. Located in the heart of the coffee and networking area, it’s the perfect spot for candid exchanges and sharing insights. All sessions recordings will be converted to "UFI Bate-Papo Unplugged" podcasts and shared to Spotify.
Danica Tormohlen
Florent Jarry
11:45 AM - 12:25 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
What Business Events Can Learn from Fitness Tourism & Competitions
Session
Exhibitions, conferences, and business events can benefit from many lessons from fitness competitions such as HYROX and Spartan races. Elements of fun and community building can be harnessed to further create loyalty, memorable experiences, and new revenue streams. In fact, fitness and active wellness travel tourism has become a growing trend over the last several years globally and is expected to reach US $1.3 trillion in 2025. Join Ben Veechai, consultant and organizer of 100s of B2B events as well as co-owner of BASE Bangkok Fitness Studios, in this fun and entertaining session which will inspire you to look at your event, venue, or business strategy in new ways.
Ben Veechai
12:25 PM - 12:40 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Medal of Honour Ceremony: Celebrating the Present And Honouring the Past
Session
12:40 PM - 02:00 PM
Networking Lunch
Networking
02:00 PM - 02:50 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Rethinking the Role of Service Providers in Shaping 'What’s Next'
Session
As our industry strives for greater sustainability, efficiency and innovation, the role of service providers is rapidly evolving. This discussion will explore how logistics, general service providers and production partners are moving beyond traditional delivery roles to become strategic contributors & partners to the future of events. The panel will examine how the supply chain is responding to shifting organiser and customer demands, adopting new technologies and helping to reimagine what exhibitions can be.
Geoff Dickinson
Jason Stead
Dave Schmidt
Tanya Pinchuk
02:50 PM - 03:00 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
UFI Award Winners Ceremony
Session
03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Networking Break
Networking
KUEHNE+NAGEL Table Tennis Tournament
The Table Tennis Tournament is back for this year at the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong.
Find a partner and sign up with a Kuehne+Nagel team member onsite.
Tournament schedule:
- Wednesday, November 19 at 15:45 – 16:00
- Thursday, November 20 at 11:00 – 11:45 and 15:00 – 16:00
- Friday, November 21 at 11:00 – 11:45
Winner Announcement: Friday, November 21 at 16:00 (main stage).
03:10 PM - 03:30 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Bate-papo Corner
Talk
About Bate-Papo Corner
The Bate-Papo Corner is small side-stage within the UFI Global Congress, located in the heart of the main networking and coffee area. Inspired by the Portuguese term for “chat,” this format aims to empower attendees of the UFI Congress to shape the dialogue and learn from each other in a dynamic, participatory setting. This informal, small-group setup creates the perfect environment for candid exchanges and sharing insights. All sessions recordings will be converted to "UFI Bate-Papo Unplugged" podcasts and shared to Spotify.
03:35 PM - 03:55 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Bate-papo Corner: "OK Boomer - Let's Talk About Exhibitions" - Bridging Generations: From Legacy to Gen Z
Talk
What happens when decades of industry experience meet the fresh perspective of Gen Z? In this lively conversation, Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse, and Victoria Cai, Digital Marketing Executive at Informa Markets Asia, explore how exhibitions are evolving in format, purpose, and audience expectations. Together, they’ll discuss what the next generation values in face-to-face events, how innovation and tradition can coexist, and where they find common ground in shaping the industry’s future.
About Bate-Papo Corner
Running alongside the networking break, Bate-Papo (bah-tchee-PA-poo) is an informal space for dynamic, small-group conversations. Inspired by the Portuguese term for “chat,” it empowers attendees to shape the dialogue and learn from each other in an open, participatory setting. Located in the heart of the coffee and networking area, it’s the perfect spot for candid exchanges and sharing insights. All sessions recordings will be converted to "UFI Bate-Papo Unplugged" podcasts and shared to Spotify.
Gerald Böse
Victoria Cai
04:15 PM - 05:15 PM
Room 201A-B - level 2
Insight Series - Ideas in action: Digital Innovation
Workshop
Join us for a lively special session which will look at how digital innovation can transform your company and your shows. First you will hear from Italian Exhibition Group who won the 2025 Digital Award for their all-in-one digital ecosystem that unifies their visitors, exhibitors and suppliers. This project to several years to implement and transformed both the user experience and the companies own tradeshow management. You can watch a 3 min video about the project here. You will then take part in a short dynamic workshop in which you will explore what is the biggest priority for you in terms of digital improvements, what tools you and skills you need, and how to overcome barriers to pushing the button and making the change.
About Insight Series
For these 1-hour sessions we will deep dive into a specific theme. Each session will feature a 15-minute presentation from this year’s UFI Award Winner followed by a 45-minute workshop-style discussion with attendees.
Stephan Forseilles
Enrico Gallorini
Simone Zaccherini
04:15 PM - 05:15 PM
Room 201C - level 2
Insight Series - Ideas in action: Ops & Services
Workshop
Join us for a discussion on how food and beverage innovation is redefining the customer journey - from sustainable sourcing and zero-waste creativity to community-driven impact. We will explore how every touchpoint, from menu design to service delivery, can elevate the attendee experience while supporting operational excellence and Net Zero goals. Participants will walk away with practical tools and ideas to design F&B concepts that are efficient, engaging, and memorable throughout the customer journey.
About Insight Series
For these 1-hour sessions we will deep dive into a specific theme. Each session will feature a 15-minute presentation from this year’s UFI Award Winner followed by a 45-minute workshop-style discussion with attendees.
Laura Purdy
Jörg Zeissig
04:15 PM - 05:15 PM
Room 203-204-205 - level 2
Insight Series - Ideas in Action: Sustainability
Workshop
This interactive session builds on the Insight Series session at the UFI European Conference in Thessaloniki, taking a deeper dive into how Diversity and Inclusion continue to shape our industry from strengthening team culture to enhancing customer experiences. Participants will leave with case studies and insights from peers across the industry and a joint approach for setting and measuring inclusion metrics to track progress and impact.
About Insight Series
For these 1-hour sessions we will deep dive into a specific theme. Each session will feature a 15-minute presentation from this year’s UFI Award Winner followed by a 45-minute workshop-style discussion with attendees.
Raymond Rhodes
Vincenzo Cecere
Edwin Van Der Vennet
05:20 PM - 06:20 PM
Room 203-204-205 - level 2
Insight Series – Ideas in Action: Industry Partners
Workshop
Join us for a discussion on how customer-driven innovation is transforming our industry from redefining value to co-creating solutions alongside our clients. We will explore where innovation really starts and how broadening the definition of “the customer” can unlock new opportunities for relevance and growth. Participants will walk away with practical tools and fresh case studies showing how to spot emerging needs early, collaborate with customers throughout the journey, and measure innovation by its real impact, not just satisfaction scores.
About Insight Series
For these 1-hour sessions we will deep dive into a specific theme. Each session will feature a 15-minute presentation from this year’s UFI Award Winner followed by a 45-minute workshop-style discussion with attendees.
Dirk Urra
Nina Sossau
Tanya Pinchuk
Sebastian Witt
Peter Hall
05:20 PM - 06:20 PM
Room 201C - level 2
Insight Series – Ideas in Action: HR (People & Culture)
Workshop
Join us for a discussion on how technology and empathy can work together to create sustainable performance in event teams. Inspired by IMPACT Exhibition Management’s award-winning “Keep Me” platform, we will explore how predictive planning, fair scheduling, and digital workforce tools can reduce burnout and improve engagement. Participants will leave with practical approaches and key metrics to help their teams work better - not harder.
About Insight Series
For these 1-hour sessions we will deep dive into a specific theme. Each session will feature a 15-minute presentation from this year’s UFI Award Winner followed by a 45-minute workshop-style discussion with attendees.
Thamita Chongswatvorakul
Zinnia Angus
05:20 PM - 06:20 PM
Room 201A-B - level 2
Insights Series - Ideas in Action: Marketing
Workshop
Join us for a discussion on how exhibitions can connect with new generations of participants through authentic storytelling, cultural relevance, and creative marketing. Inspired by Targi w Krakowie’s KRAKDENT® project, we will explore how audience expectations are evolving and what it takes to stay relevant in a fast-changing communication landscape. Participants will walk away with actionable ideas to engage next-generation visitors and exhibitors and strengthen brand connection.
About Insight Series
For these 1-hour sessions we will deep dive into a specific theme. Each session will feature a 15-minute presentation from this year’s UFI Award Winner followed by a 45-minute workshop-style discussion with attendees.
Ewa Woch
Rowena Arzt
Vijay Sharma
Carolina Giobbi
07:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Museum M+ - Departures from official hotels and AsiaWorld-Expo at 7:00 PM / 7:15 PM / 7:30 PM
Congress Dinner
Networking
Join us for an unforgettable evening at M+, Asia’s leading museum of contemporary visual culture, located in the heart of Hong Kong’s vibrant West Kowloon Cultural District. This special gathering celebrates the city’s distinctive urban charm, seamlessly blending art, culture, and creativity.
Delegates will enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring immersive experiences that blend neon art, signature catering with addition of nostalgic refreshments, cross-genre music, and breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Victoria Harbour.
Notably, this year also marks the 85th anniversary of martial arts legend Bruce Lee’s birth. To commemorate this occasion, AWE has specially invited the Hong Kong Dance Company, the creator of the choreography, to perform for the event. The performance interprets Lee’s martial arts philosophy and spirit through a dynamic fusion of strength and grace, promising to unveil the event with excitement.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to unwind, connect, and experience the true essence of Hong Kong in one extraordinary evening.
Friday, November 21
08:00 AM - 09:25 AM
Networking Refreshments
Networking
09:25 AM - 09:30 AM
Welcome Back
Session
09:30 AM - 10:20 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
How Are Venues Evolving to Meet the Future of Events?
Session
As expectations from organisers, exhibitors and visitors continue to evolve, venues are under pressure to innovate - not just in infrastructure, but in the experience, flexibility and sustainability they offer.
In this session, venue leaders from across the globe will share how they are rethinking the purpose and potential of event spaces. It will focus on how venues are adapting their operations, design, accessibility and services to meet changing organiser and visitor expectations, and how collaboration across the ecosystem is essential to shaping the future.
Moderator: Hugh Jones, CEO, RX
Joyce Ann Leveston
John Sharkey
Hugh Jones
Huda Al Shamlan
10:20 AM - 11:00 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Redefining Exhibition Formats
Session
Exhibition formats have always changed – glacially. Over the last 10 years, we’ve discussed confex models, hybrid models, and many more, and how they change our business model and operations. Now, the debate is on how exhibition organisers widen their business model beyond these traditional extensions of the main show floor.
The NGL class of 2025 will explore new, “out of the box” formats that can inspire a new iteration of event models.
Ilaria Basile
Anida D'Costa
Taher Hakami
Sarah Jung
Diana Maria Salman
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Networking Break
Networking
KUEHNE+NAGEL Table Tennis Tournament
The Table Tennis Tournament is back for this year at the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong.
Find a partner and sign up with a Kuehne+Nagel team member onsite.
Tournament schedule:
- Wednesday, November 19 at 15:45 – 16:00
- Thursday, November 20 at 11:00 – 11:45 and 15:00 – 16:00
- Friday, November 21 at 11:00 – 11:45
Winner Announcement: Friday, November 21 at 16:00 (main stage).
11:05 AM - 11:25 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Bate-papo Corner: Better Stands: From Build to Buzz
Talk
What makes a stand truly better?
In this lively session, we’ll explore why investing in better stands matters. Not just for organizers and exhibitors, but for the entire events ecosystem. Through real-world case studies and honest conversations, our panel of industry leaders will unpack what’s working, what’s not, and where the future is headed. Bring your toughest questions, share your own experiences, and join the dialogue that could reshape how we think about stands.
About Bate-Papo Corner
Running alongside the networking break, Bate-Papo (bah-tchee-PA-poo) is an informal space for dynamic, small-group conversations. Inspired by the Portuguese term for “chat,” it empowers attendees to shape the dialogue and learn from each other in an open, participatory setting. Located in the heart of the coffee and networking area, it’s the perfect spot for candid exchanges and sharing insights. All sessions recordings will be converted to "UFI Bate-Papo Unplugged" podcasts and shared to Spotify.
David Harrison
Emmanuel Hamelinck
Jörg Zeissig
Amy So
11:25 AM - 11:45 AM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Bate-papo Corner: Tariffs, Politics and Shifting Supply Chains – What It Means For the Exhibition Industry in Asia
Talk
This is an era of change for Asian exhibitions. Supply chains are slowing moving – or at least diversifying away from China. That will benefit India and Southeast Asian markets. India with its robust economy and venue capacity will be a growth driver in the region.
In addition, the underdeveloped market in Vietnam will finally start to realise its potential for the same reasons as India – new venues, a strong economy and companies looking for an alternative to China.
In China, economic growth may be slower and geopolitics will not be favourable, but you cannot ignore a market that accounts for more than 60% of net space sold in the region. We may be in a cycle of slower growth in China, but the opportunities there will still be on a scale that no other Asian market can match.
About Bate-Papo Corner
Running alongside the networking break, Bate-Papo (bah-tchee-PA-poo) is an informal space for dynamic, small-group conversations. Inspired by the Portuguese term for “chat,” it empowers attendees to shape the dialogue and learn from each other in an open, participatory setting. Located in the heart of the coffee and networking area, it’s the perfect spot for candid exchanges and sharing insights. All sessions recordings will be converted to "UFI Bate-Papo Unplugged" podcasts and shared to Spotify.
Wolfram N. Diener
Rita Chu
Jimé Essink
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
The Global Economic Outlook
Session
Nick Marro
12:30 PM - 01:00 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
UFI Presidency Handover
Session
01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Networking Lunch
Networking
02:30 PM - 04:00 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Host Country Session – Gateway to Growth: Unleashing Opportunities in the Greater Bay Area
Session
This session will delve into the Greater Bay Area (GBA)as a thriving economic powerhouse with tremendous potential for the MICE industry. It will bring together representatives from key GBA cities — including industry leaders, venue operators, and market experts — to discuss how one of Asia’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving regions is shaping the future of business events.
The session will spotlight the region’s latest developments, innovations, and growth initiatives, while fostering cross-border collaboration and uncovering new business opportunities within the GBA.
Irene Chan
Marilyn Tham
Wing Chu
Ted He
Raymond Tang
04:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Hall 2 - ground floor
Congress Closing and Next Host Announcement
Session
05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Departure from AsiaWorld-Expo at 5:00 PM, 5:15 PM and 5:30 PM
Tram Party in Hong Kong - Fully Booked
Networking
The tram party is fully booked.
Have You Ever Partied on a Tram? Now’s Your Chance!
Ready to experience Hong Kong like never before? Hop on a *vintage open-top tram* and soak in stunning 360-degree views of the city’s vibrant nightlife and famous landmarks — all while enjoying delicious food and drinks!
From Tram Party to Lan Kwai Fong: Your Must‑Go Hong Kong Night
After the enchanting Tram Party, immerse yourself in Lan Kwai Fong—Hong Kong’s most iconic nightlife district and a must‑go destination for locals and visitors alike, famed for its festive spirit, bustling streets, and eclectic bars. Then make your way to Baci, a vibrant Italian eatery at the heart of it all.
A prime open‑air area will be reserved exclusively for UFI delegates, offering a welcoming space to mingle, savour freshly crafted canapés and fine wines, and enjoy lively interactions with locals. Relax, connect, and soak in the city’s dazzling lights and vibrant rhythm—the true heartbeat of Hong Kong.
Duration and Transportation
The Tram Party runs for approximately 1.5 hours, concluding at the city drop-off point (Central) around 7:30 PM-7:45 PM.
After the tram ride, immerse yourself in Lan Kwai Fong—Hong Kong’s most iconic nightlife district and make your way to Baci, a vibrant Italian eatery.
Guests who are not attending the Dinner at Baci may depart at this time. For those joining the dinner, the evening will continue, and you will be free to explore the city at your leisure from 9:00 PM onwards.
Please note that transportation back to the official hotels will not be provided.
Please note that transportation back to the official hotels will not be provided.
Please remember to wear your delegate badge.
Capacity: 60 participants
Luggage is not permitted on the tram.
(Tram party is included in the registration fee)
Saturday, November 22
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Post-Congress Tours
Networking
To make the most of your time at the congress in Hong Kong, take part in one of the four unique post-congress tours, giving you the chance to explore the rich culture and history of Hong Kong.
How to book a tour?
- If you haven’t registered yet: you can select your preferred tour directly in the event registration form.
- If you’ve already registered: please contact the UFI team at events@ufi.org including your chosen tour and the names of the participants.
- Tour 1 - Hong Kong Heights – The Peak Experience
- Tour 2 - Cultural Canvas – From Past to Present
- Tour 3 - Lantau Escapes – Nature, Heritage & Sea
- Tour 4 - Old Town Central – Heritage Meets Hip
Participants joining the post-congress tours may bring their luggage on the buses.