Former Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying has once again urged that only Chinese wines be served at Chinese National Day receptions, as the anniversary of the event draws near. Leung, who stepped down from his position to make way for Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, remains an active political figure and has become a strong advocate for Chinese wines—a move that initially seemed non-political.
Leung’s latest call for exclusively Chinese wines at National Day tables is a continuation of his ongoing campaign. He believes it would be unjustifiable if both officials and the public did not adhere to this practice. This is not the first time Leung has made such a request. Over the years, he has led delegations to Ningxia’s wineries and wine schools, meeting local leaders and winery owners, all while promoting the idea that “Chinese people should drink Chinese wines.”
Had Leung been an ordinary citizen exercising his right to free speech, this issue might have been less controversial. However, as a former Chief Executive and a current vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, his statements carry significant weight.
Leung’s high-profile push raises questions about whether Chinese wines will become the exclusive choice at National Day receptions hosted by the government and various business associations. There is concern that community leaders might feel compelled to follow suit, potentially turning away from imported wines, which currently dominate the local market.
Such a shift could send a confusing message to international business partners, suggesting they are no longer welcome. This might even be perceived as a sign that Hong Kong is veering away from its role as an international trading hub toward a more protectionist stance, despite expectations for the city to remain a global gateway.
If patriots criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump for his “America First” policies that moved away from globalization, it might be equally questionable to exclude wines from other countries during a significant national celebration. Such a decision would be highly symbolic.
There is no denying that Chinese wines have made significant strides. Wineries dedicated to quality have improved their products to the extent that four Chinese wines were featured in Cathay Pacific Airways’ Discover Wine Series for business- and first-class passengers on long-haul flights earlier this year. The selected wines—Grace Vineyard Tasya’s Reserve Cabernet Franc 2018, Silver Heights Jiayuan Marselan 2021, Xige Estate Jade Dove Single Vineyard Cabernet Gernischt 2019 from Ningxia, and Domaine De Long Dai 2020 from Shandong—were chosen from a competitive pool of 40 Chinese wines.
While the progress of Chinese wines is commendable, it should not be used as a justification to exclude wines from other countries. Doing so could risk isolating the city at a time when openness and international collaboration are more important than ever.
