The exhibition area of Hong Kong enterprises at the upcoming 3rd China International Import Expo will increase by 20 percent compared with last year, an indication that companies in the region are still focused on expanding business opportunities in the Chinese mainland.

This year, the exhibition area, which will feature a food product hall and a service industry hall, will span 1,700 square meters, the largest in the event's history, though the number of exhibitors will be the same as last year, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council announced in Shanghai on Wednesday.

"We'll actively assist more Hong Kong businesses with integrating into the country's dual-circulation development pattern and searching for new directions for growth in a time when the global economy is unstable and when the COVID-19 pandemic is still lingering," said Jacky Chung, director of the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

"The CIIE is an important platform for Hong Kong companies to expand in the Chinese mainland market. The council has for three consecutive years organized Hong Kong enterprises to participate in the CIIE, bringing Hong Kong's international trade resources, products, and professional services into the market," he said.

In addition to renowned brands, the food product hall will introduce new ones, including OmniPork, which specializes in plant-based meat, this year. A performance stage will also make its debut, showcasing Hong Kong's high-quality food products and unique food culture.

In the service industry hall, exhibitors from architecture, logistics, marketing, professional service, and innovative technologies, will showcase their specialties and help connect Chinese mainland enterprises with global business opportunities, according to the council.

Some products and technologies exhibited will also be related to epidemic prevention and control. They include wristbands that can prevent the virus' spread, and products related to gene and virus detections.

(Source: China International Import Expo Bureau)