Hong Kong is currently being impacted by heavy rainstorms. As a result, Asia Fruit Logistica could not open this morning as planned. The official Warning Signal of a "Black Rainstorm" had been raised by local authorities, indicating heavy rainfall that has already occurred or is expected to occur across Hong Kong.
Torrential rain fell in Hong Kong on Thursday night and Friday, September 7 to 8, leading to widespread flooding across the city, submerging streets, shopping malls, and metro stations, as authorities shut schools and asked workers to stay at home.
The Chinese special administrative region saw the highest hourly rainfall since records began 140 years ago. Cascades of water tumbled down the city's mountainous terrain as authorities issued landslide risk warnings.
September 8 was to be the last day of Asia Fruit Logistica, this was the first time the show was back in the city since 2019. The venue had already begun to show signs of flooding on Thursday evening. Standholders and visitors were informed of the closure of the event via email a couple of hours before the opening time on Friday, although some had already begun to make their way to the venue.
Australian company The Avolution said that they got plenty of notice and tend to get most of their business done in the first two days, so it is not a huge blow. They say that the event has been a success for them this year, and they have had lots of great conversations.
Andrew Sperling from Coliman Bananas, who had a stand at the event, commented, "It's a disappointing end to what has been an enjoyable event, it was great to see old friends, to chat, hug, and explore new opportunities. It's unfortunate that the show could not take place today, but we appreciate its safety first."
Beyazit Afiyon from Turkish exporter Everfresh Tarım Ürünleri also attended the trade show, commented: "Unfortunately, we experienced a natural disaster on the third day of the fair. First of all, health is important. Therefore, we are happy with the decision taken. The postponement of the fair had a negative impact on our negotiations. Our schedule was so busy, that we had to cancel many of them. We will hold meetings with our customers who still request a meeting in the lobby of our hotel. We will also make up digital meetings with our customers that we have never had the opportunity to meet. I extend my best wishes to the citizens of Hong Kong. I hope that there will be no loss of life in the flood disaster."
For more information:
Asia Fruit Logistica
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www.asiafruitlogistica.com