The 30th Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART) and EntertainmentPulse, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded with about 8,000 industry professionals from 53 countries and regions participating. The events featured over 790 exhibitors from 38 countries and regions, including emerging markets like Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam alongside mature markets such as Canada, France, Italy, Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This record participation underscores Hong Kong's position as a center for cultural and artistic exchange.
FILMART continues to serve as one of the region's most influential film and television trading platforms, facilitating cross-regional collaboration. First-time exhibitor Timothy Oh, General Manager of COL International Group from Singapore, noted that FILMART helps companies expand international networks, stating he met partners from Turkey, the UK, the US, and Brazil. Another first-time exhibitor, Sachitha Kalingamudali of Mogo Studios from Sri Lanka, said FILMART exceeded expectations by connecting them with distributors from many countries. Myanmar film production company aTwentyThree used FILMART as its first international market exploration, with founder Arker Soe Oo connecting with US and European distributors and planning to bring more productions next year.
Overseas buyers recognized the exhibition's business matching effectiveness and content diversity. UK buyer Bizhan Tong commented that FILMART remains one of the most effective global platforms for driving cross-border collaboration, leading to new strategic partnerships and tangible co-investment opportunities. The event's AI Hub featured leading AI and technology companies showcasing latest technologies, helping Mainland startups and established enterprises accelerate overseas expansion. Zhihan Zhang, Founder and CEO of Daogu Culture Limited, remarked that FILMART gathers global professionals to understand different overseas market needs. The newly established AI Academy, supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and Film Development Fund, offered 19 thematic workshops providing hands-on AI skills and trend insights.
Producers Connect, jointly organized by the HKSAR's Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, Hong Kong Film Development Council and HKTDC, united over 100 producers from Hong Kong and worldwide. Through networking sessions, panel discussions and workshops, it provided a cross-regional platform for creative collaboration. Golden Globe-winning producer Janet Yang observed during a panel discussion that the world is getting flatter with language mattering less to audiences. Producer and director Peter Chan mentioned diversifying investors and partners across different regions. Forty-eight featured forums and events examined emerging trends, with EntertainmentPulse and Digital Entertainment Summit addressing artificial intelligence, streaming platform strategies, short dramas, co-production and financing trends.
The Financing & Investment panel explored Asian private investment trends and project financing strategies. Justin Deimen, Managing Partner of Goldfinch International, emphasized the need for better creative IP valuation. FILMART Online IP Catalogue featured over 2,200 creative IP projects, extending the physical fair into a two-month networking platform available until April 27. This initiative helps industry stakeholders transcend geographical boundaries and continue expanding global business opportunities. More information about the events can be found at FILMART and EntertainmentPulse.
