HONG KONG — Despite a global economic downturn that has slowed wine sales worldwide, Ningxia wine exports saw a remarkable surge of 125% in 2024, former Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying reported at a recent wine event. Leung, who currently serves as vice chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, highlighted the figures at the “Ningxia Fine Wine Banquet” held in Hong Kong. He attributed the growth to Ningxia’s ability to produce high-quality wines and emphasized Hong Kong’s pivotal role in connecting mainland Chinese businesses to global markets.
Chinese Wines Gain Ground in Hong Kong
According to Hong Kong Customs, imports of still wine from mainland China to Hong Kong reached 90,478 liters in 2024, with a total value of HKD 9.99 million (approximately USD 1.28 million). While the import volume rose sharply by 86.88% compared to 2023, the value decreased by 7.3%, indicating a higher influx of lower-priced or bulk wines. The 125% growth cited by Leung specifically pertains to Ningxia wine exports to international markets, while the Hong Kong Customs data refers to all Chinese wine imports into the Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Ningxia, a major wine-producing region in China, produced approximately 140 million bottles in 2023, contributing to an industry worth over RMB 40 billion (USD 5.52 billion).
Hong Kong as a Launchpad for Global Expansion
Hong Kong’s status as a leading wine hub in Asia continues to bolster its importance as a gateway for Chinese wineries seeking international exposure. One such winery, Xige Estate, based in Ningxia, is actively expanding its presence through the city. Owner Zhang Yanzhi shared that the winery participated in the 2024 Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival and held a promotional event at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center. These efforts helped connect the winery with buyers from Japan and Singapore, two key markets for Chinese wines.
In addition to festivals and promotional events, Chinese fine wines are increasingly appearing on the shelves of luxury hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and airlines in Hong Kong. Retailers such as City’super and airlines like Cathay Pacific have started carrying premium Chinese wines. Local importers including Watson’s Wine, EWM Fine Wines, Enoteca, and Northeast Wine & Spirits have also incorporated more Chinese wines into their offerings.
According to Zhang, Xige’s success in Hong Kong has contributed significantly to its growing reputation in Asia. “In 2024, Japan and Singapore showed strong demand for Xige’s wines, and one of the reasons is the credibility we’ve built through our business in Hong Kong,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Xige Estate plans to establish a Hong Kong-based company and warehouse in 2025 to further support its expansion in the region.
Room for Growth Despite Progress
While Chinese wines are gaining momentum, they still represent a niche category in the Hong Kong market. In 2024, mainland Chinese wines ranked 14th in wine imports by value, accounting for just 0.17% of the total imports, according to Hong Kong Customs data. This small market share suggests significant potential for growth as the reputation of Chinese wines continues to rise both in Hong Kong and globally.
As Chinese wineries like Xige Estate continue to build their presence, the trajectory of Ningxia wine and other fine wines from mainland China suggests that their influence in international markets will continue to expand in the years to come.
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