Exports of Ningxia wine surged 125% in 2024 despite a global economic downturn that weakened wine sales, former Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said at a recent wine event.
Leung, now vice chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, shared the figures at the “Ningxia Fine Wine Banquet” in Hong Kong. He said the growth reflects the region’s ability to produce high-quality wines and emphasized Hong Kong’s role as a bridge for helping mainland Chinese businesses expand globally.
Chinese Wines Gain Traction in Hong Kong
Imports of still wine from mainland China to Hong Kong totaled 90,478 liters in 2024, valued at HKD 9.99 million (US$ 1.28 million), according to Hong Kong Customs. Import volume surged 86.88% from 2023, though the value declined 7.3%, indicating an influx of lower-priced or bulk-imported wines.
Leung’s cited 125% growth refers specifically to Ningxia wine exports to all overseas market, while Hong Kong Customs data covers all Chinese wine imports to the SAR only. Ningxia, one of China’s leading wine regions, produced 140 million bottles in 2023, with an industry value exceeding RMB 40 billion (USD 5.52 billion).
Hong Kong as a Gateway to Global Markets
Hong Kong’s status as Asia’s wine hub makes it a key launching point for Chinese wineries seeking international exposure.
Xige Estate, a Ningxia-based winery, is one of the producers expanding through Hong Kong. Owner Zhang Yanzhi said the winery participated in the 2024 Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival and hosted a promotional event at Asia Society Hong Kong Center, connecting with buyers from Japan and Singapore.
Chinese fine wines are also gaining presence in luxury hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and airlines in Hong Kong. Retailer City’super and Cathay Pacific Airways now stock premium Chinese wines, while local importers including Watson’s Wine, EWM Fine Wines, Enoteca, and Northeast Wine & Spirits have added more Chinese wines to their portfolios.
“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,” said Zhang Yanzhi when speaking to Vino Joy News.
To further expand in Asia, Xige plans to establish a Hong Kong-based company and warehouse in 2025, Zhang said.
Despite growth, Chinese wines remain a niche category in Hong Kong. Mainland Chinese wines ranked 14th in 2024 wine imports by value, making up just 0.17% of total imports, Hong Kong Customs data shows.
The low market share suggests room for growth, as Chinese fine wines gain wider recognition in Hong Kong and beyond.
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