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Seafood Expo Asia cancelled due to Hong Kong protests
August 23, 2019 By Hatchery International staff
A highlight event at the annual Seafood Expo Asia is the Young Chef Challenge. (Credit: Seafood Expo Asia, Facebook) Diversified Communications announced Aug. 21 that its 10th annual Seafood Expo Asia on Sept. 3-5 has been cancelled. The decision was made in response to ongoing protests in Hong Kong, China.
“We are committed to delivering an event that best reflects the interest of the seafood industry,” said Liz Plizga, group vice-president at Diversified Communications. “This decision was exceptionally difficult and one that we did not take lightly. There was enough information to indicate that these events would continue with potential impacts on travel and logistics.”
Seafood Expo Asia was expected to bring more than 7,500 seafood professionals from more than 68 countries to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The trade event is an opportunity for seafood buyers and suppliers to network and conduct business in the Hong Kong and Asia Pacific markets.
Earlier this month, thousands of protestors flooded the Hong Kong International Airport, forcing more than 160 flights to be cancelled. These protests are a part of a cumulation of turmoil in Hong Kong with weekly sit-ins and demonstrations that have turned violent.
“Based on travel advisories and feedback from our customers and buyers, we understand there are concerns over safety and travel,” said Plizga in a statement. “At the end of the day, we made the final decision with our customers’ best interest in mind. We are dedicated to providing a platform for seafood professionals in this important market and are thrilled to be returning to Hong Kong.”
Seafood Expo Asia is expected to remain in Hong Kong for its 2020 event. In the meantime, Plizga ensured that her team has been engaging with customers to address questions about the September cancellation.
Diversified Communications, organizers of the event, has a global seafood portfolio of expositions and media which includes Seafood Expo North America, Seafood Expo Global and SeafoodSource.com. The company was established in 1949 and based in Portland, Maine, U.S.A.
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