Hong Kong Convention Center Bans Smoking

Staff -- Tradeshow Week, 8/29/2005

The Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre is going smoke-free. Beginning Jan. 1, smoking will be forbidden in all parts of the major downtown Hong Kong complex.

Given the well-known fondness of many overseas exhibitors and attendees for tobacco, how can this possibly go over well with HKCEC customers? According to Cliff Wallace, managing director of the venue's private management company, Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, it was show managers, attendees and others who visit the center on a frequent basis who asked for the change.

"It's simply the right thing to do," Wallace said. "The majority of our venue guests are annoyed with the negative impact of smoking. The positive impact from prohibiting smoking on health, environment and maintenance is significant. The trends around the world are consistent, especially in such public places."

Wallace said HKCEC hasn't received a single complaint since the announcement, but many have sent thanks for taking the step before likely legislation passed.

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council, which owns HKCEC, is already communicating the new policy to exhibitors and buyers at HKCEC exhibitions. Centre staffers have developed an awareness campaign that includes signage, written notification to clients, and a request to show organizers to include notification in event materials.

And Wallace's message to the large numbers of Europeans and others who smoke, and are still free to smoke in venues in their own countries? "When in Rome, do as the Romans."