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ANA and Trip.com expand market partnership

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TOKYO, 26 June 2025: All Nippon Airways is expanding its New Distribution Capability* (NDC) based ticket sales partnership with global online travel agency Trip.com.

Starting on 24 June, the partnership expanded from a single market in Japan to include 11 additional markets: Australia, Hong Kong SAR, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan region, India, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Photo credit: ANA.

The enhanced service allows customers in new markets booking ANA flights on Trip.com to access the same fares and reservation services offered on the ANA website, including key post-booking actions such as itinerary changes and refunds.

Additionally, a wide range of ANA fares will now be available on Trip.com, creating greater convenience for customers purchasing ANA tickets through the platform.

“With access to new markets, ANA is delighted that we can now offer enhanced services and fares for our customers through NDC connectivity,” said ANA Global Sales and Distribution, Customer Experience Vice President Hironobu Kondo. “We will continue to expand our sales network via NDC to ensure our offerings are accessible to both domestic and international customers.”

Trip.com Regional Airline Director – North Asia PJ Zhou added: “We are thrilled to elevate our NDC collaboration with ANA to the next level. Leveraging our extensive experience in supporting global airlines through NDC technology, we’re committed to partnering closely with ANA to provide enhanced end-to-end experiences—from seamless bookings to comprehensive post-booking and ancillary services—for our mutual customers.”

About NDC（New Distribution Capability)
*New Distribution Capability (NDC) is a communication standard developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for the transmission of airline ticketing and related service information. Unlike the traditional EDIFACT standard, NDC enables the flexible and detailed exchange of information, facilitating more dynamic and personalised offerings. Additionally, it allows seamless integration not only within the airline industry but also with a diverse range of external partners.

Langkawi’s hidden world of birds

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TTR WEEKLY
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LANGKAWI, 25 June 2025: Langkawi isn’t just about beaches, duty-free shops, or seafood dinners with a view. Look up or, better yet, pause for a moment, and you’ll notice a quieter, wilder rhythm unfolding above and around you: birdsong in the trees, silhouettes gliding between branches, flashes of colour darting across the sky. Welcome to Langkawi’s hidden world of birds.

Langkawi lies just six degrees north of the Equator, where the equatorial and tropical climate zones overlap. This unique position creates an ecological crossroads that supports a remarkable diversity of birdlife, especially for an island its size. Best of all, you don’t need to be an expert or own expensive gear to enjoy it, even your smartphone camera will do the trick.

Forget the myth that birdwatching is only for the seasoned or the thoughtfully equipped. As the locals might say, your “Mark II eyeballs” will do just fine. Even a modest pair of binoculars can open up a whole new layer of Langkawi’s natural magic.

Start with the raptors that command the skies above Langkawi. These birds of prey are a common sight in the mangroves, coastlines, and hillsides, often spotted gliding effortlessly on rising thermals. Look out for the White-bellied Sea Eagle, the Crested Serpent Eagle, and the unmistakable Brahminy Kite, with its striking chestnut plumage and white head, often seen circling above fishing boats or perched near the water’s edge.

Deeper inland, in the island’s forested highlands, hornbills add a touch of prehistoric drama to the treetops. The Great Hornbill, in particular, is a majestic presence on Mount Raya. With its heavy, curved bill and unmistakable barking call, it’s often seen gliding between fruiting trees in the early hours. A sunrise walk or drive up Gunung Raya offers one of the best chances to spot this iconic species in action.

In the cooler months, Langkawi welcomes migratory visitors. Herons, egrets, and other wetland birds fill the paddy fields in search of fish and grubs, turning these landscapes into seasonal theatres of activity.

Meanwhile, colourful residents like kingfishers and sunbirds dazzle with their plumage, if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse before they vanish into the foliage.

Sunbirds, in particular, are small, shimmering nectar-lovers often spotted near flowering plants. Though not quite hummingbirds, they belong to the same dazzling family tree.

The best way to start is to keep it simple. A local bird guidebook, a pair of binoculars (or none at all), and maybe a local guide with a good eye. And yes, your smartphone can be an excellent companion for birding. With a decent zoom, a steady hand, and a little patience, it can turn into a surprisingly effective birdwatching tool.

Langkawi’s birds are storytellers, characters, and companions for those who take the time to notice. So on your next visit, tune your senses skyward. You might leave with more than just great photos, you might just catch a new hobby taking flight.

For more information, visit naturallyLangkawi.my

THB100 goes a long way on Vietjet

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 25 June 2025: Just two days left to catch a bargain fare in Vietjet Thailand’s latest ‘Mid-Year Mega Sale’ promotion with base fares starting from just THB100 (excluding taxes and fees).

The deal applies to flights to top domestic destinations like Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Hat Yai,  as well as international hotspots including Taipei, Fukuoka, Phu Quoc, Beijing, and Shanghai.

The promotion also marks the launch of the airline’s new direct service to Seoul, starting 1 October 2025.

Bookings must be completed by midnight on 26 June for travel from 1 August 2025 to 28 March 2026 on the airline’s website or through its mobile phone app.

The special promotional tickets apply to Vietjet Thailand’s entire international network, including routes from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Fukuoka, Chiang Mai to Osaka, and Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Hangzhou (China), Phu Quoc, Danang (Vietnam), Taipei, Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Mumbai (India) and Seoul (South Korea).

Additionally, the promotion covers flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Okinawa and Hokkaido (via Taipei), as well as Vietjet Thailand’s entire domestic flight network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, Surat Thani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Ubon Ratchathani and cross-country routes connecting Phuket to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

Tourism boosts the Philippines’ GDP

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TTR WEEKLY
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Skyline of Manila City and Manila Bay, Philippines

MANILA, 25 June 2025: Tourism contributed 8.9% to the Philippines’ 2024 gross domestic product (GDP), an increase from 8.7% in 2023, according to a Philippines News Agency report quoting data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) last Thursday.

The Tourism Direct Gross Value Added (TDGVA), an indicator that measures the value added of the tourism industry, amounted to PHP2.35 trillion last year, 11.2% higher compared with PHP2.12 trillion in 2023.

PNA also noted that employment in the tourism sector increased by 6.1% to 6.75 million, compared with 6.37 million in 2023.

“The share of employment in tourism industries to the total employment in the country was recorded at 13.8% in 2024,” the news agency report noted.

Released annually, the PSA’s Philippine Tourism Satellite Account for the Philippines reports all visitor spending in accommodation services, food and beverage serving services, transport services, travel agencies and other reservation services, entertainment and recreation services, and shopping.

Among the forms of tourism expenditures, those for outbound tourism posted the highest annual growth rate of 37.5%, reaching PhP345.68 billion in 2024. This was followed by domestic tourism expenditure, which grew by 16.4% from PhP2.71 trillion in 2023 to PhP3.16 trillion in 2024.

Inbound tourism expenditure grew by 0.4% to PHP699.98 billion last year, compared with PHP697.49 billion in 2023.

(Source: PNA)

Exploring Asia’s spectacular waterfalls

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 25 June 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda invites adventurous travellers to explore Asia’s hidden waterfall destinations, perfect for those looking to escape the ordinary.

From secluded rainforest cascades to dramatic mountain streams, these off-the-beaten-path gems promise unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Dau Dang Waterfall – Source: Collection Ba Be National Park, Vietnam.

Waterfalls offer a unique appeal to travellers, combining natural beauty with a sense of adventure. Asia, with its diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery, offers countless hidden waterfall wonders waiting to be discovered. Whether tucked away in dense jungles, nestled in mountain ranges, or flowing through tranquil national parks, these destinations are perfect for those seeking to connect with nature and uncover lesser-known treasures.

Here’s Agoda’s list of nine must-visit waterfall destinations in Asia:

Thi Lo Su, Umphang, Thailand

As Thailand’s largest waterfall, Thi Lo Su is a majestic sight tucked away in the remote wilderness of Tak Province. Its multi-tiered cascades and wild surroundings make it a must-visit for those seeking a truly off-the-grid adventure.

Shiraito Falls, Shizuoka, Japan

Located near the iconic Mt. Fuji, Shiraito Falls is a mesmerising curtain of water that flows gracefully over a wide rock face. Surrounded by verdant foliage, this serene spot is a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful retreat from bustling tourist hubs.

Seoraksan National Park, Gangwon-do, South Korea

This dramatic mountain park is home to hidden gems like Biryong and Yukdam waterfalls. Surrounded by rugged peaks, these cascades offer an escape for hikers and nature lovers.

Senaru, Lombok, Indonesia

The village of Senaru serves as the gateway to the enchanting Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. Nestled at the foot of Mount Rinjani, these cascades are set amidst tropical forests and are perfect for adventurous souls looking to combine trekking with a refreshing dip.

Agumbe, Karnataka, India

Known as the “Cherrapunji of the South,” Agumbe is a rainforest village home to stunning waterfalls like Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls. These cascades are a dream for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse oneself in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.

Ditumabo Falls, Baler, Philippines

Known as the “Mother Falls,” Ditumabo is a powerful cascade set in the laid-back coastal town of Baler. The trek to the falls is an adventure in itself, leading visitors through rivers and dense forests.

Belum Rainforest, Perak, Malaysia

Deep within the pristine Belum-Temengor rainforest lies a collection of hidden waterfalls, accessible only to those willing to venture off the beaten path. These secluded cascades offer a rare glimpse into one of Malaysia’s most untouched natural landscapes.

Liangshan Waterfalls, Sandimen, Taiwan

Located in the indigenous lands of Pingtung, Liangshan Waterfalls are a secluded treasure surrounded by forested hills. This captivating spot offers a unique cultural and natural experience for those eager to explore Taiwan’s hidden corners.

Dau Dang and Silver Waterfalls, Ba Be National Park, Vietnam

Nestled in the idyllic Ba Be Lake area, these waterfalls are hidden gems within a less-visited national park. Travellers can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, rich biodiversity, and the charm of Vietnam’s northern landscapes.

(Source: Agoda)

Visa refreshes Infinite Card benefits

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 25 June 2025: Visa announced this week refreshed card benefits for Visa Infinite in 18 markets across the Asia Pacific, recognising that affluent consumers are seeking to enhance their life’s moments.

Asia Pacific is quickly becoming a global hub for wealth and is expected to account for nearly half (47.5%) of all new High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) between 2025 and 2028.

Photo credit: Visa.

For this growing group, luxury is being redefined — not just through material goods but through meaningful experiences that enhance their lives and relationships. Interestingly, 65% of HNWIs in Asia Pacific and nearly 90% of Gen Z respondents hold Visa Infinite or equivalent premium cards. When choosing a card, 36% say they prioritise how well the card fits their lifestyle and personal needs, more than those who choose based on rewards (27%) or cashback (24%).

Visa Thailand, Head of Product & Value-Added Services Angsumalin Fordham said: “Visa is committed to offering affluent Thai consumers personalised and valuable benefits that extend beyond traditional rewards. Today’s premium experience encompasses seamless and meaningful interactions, whether at home or abroad. With the updated Visa Signature and Infinite cards, we provide protection, convenience, and exclusive perks such as travel insurance and 24/7 concierge support. As Thai cardholders increase their outbound travel spend, particularly to Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea, we are proud to support them with secure, borderless payments and curated benefits that enhance their journey.”

Affluent spending trends

Affluent Thai consumers are shifting toward a more intentional way of spending, carefully balancing practical needs with a desire for experience-driven lifestyles. Visa’s latest data highlights this trend, showing steady growth in spending year-over-year: a 10.2% increase in January 2025 compared to the previous year, rising to 13.4% in February and peaking at an impressive 17.7% in March.

The top five categories by transaction volume among affluent cardholders are transportation, food and grocery, quick-service restaurants, restaurants, and fuel. However, when it comes to big-ticket purchases, they prioritise long-term value and security, channelling high ticket-size purchases into insurance, professional services, education, and airlines.

The outbound spending behaviour of Thailand’s affluent class takes on a distinctly experience-led character, with their top destinations being Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and France.

Dining out remains the leading category by transaction volume, followed by food and grocery, retail goods, and quick service restaurants. Interestingly, entertainment ranks 10th, pointing to a growing desire for leisure and cultural engagement during international trips, from exclusive pre-sale access to music concerts and theatre to live experiences.

Yet even as they indulge, affluent travellers continue to be measured in their spending. The highest average ticket sizes abroad are observed in categories such as insurance, healthcare, automotive, apparel and accessories, and vehicle rental.

Visa Infinite cardholders in Thailand can elevate their travel experiences with premium benefits, including 30% off Agoda bookings and 20% off stays with IHG and Accor hotel groups, offering flexibility across both independent and luxury hotel options.

Travellers can enjoy 20% off at select food and beverage outlets across seven key airports in five cities — Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi), Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, and Incheon.

AirAsia X launches Uzbekistan route

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 25 June 2025: AirAsia X celebrated its growing presence in Central Asia with the announcement of a brand new route to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, unlocking new adventures in Central Asia after Almaty, Kazakhstan, for Singaporeans via ‘Fly-Thru’ services in Kuala Lumpur.

Starting from 15 October 2025, AAX will operate three weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur and Tashkent. Travellers from Singapore will be able to access the route by choosing one of 11 daily flights available between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

(L-R) Mohd Akbal Setia, Director of International Promotions for America, Europe and Oceania, Tourism Malaysia;  Amanda Woo, Chief Commercial Officer, AirAsia Aviation Group; Chua Choon Hwa; Deputy Secretary-General (Tourism) of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture; Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X; His Excellency Karomidin Gadoev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Malaysia; Dato’ Fam Lee Ee, Non-Independent Non-Executive Chairman of AirAsia X and Ikhlas Kamarudin, CEO of Ikhlas.com.

Following AAX’s entry into the region with Almaty, Kazakhstan, in early 2024, with a consistently strong load factor and increased flight frequencies, the Tashkent route aims further to facilitate air travel between Southeast Asia and Central Asia, fostering stronger trade, tourism, and business ties between the regions.

AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said: “The launch of our Kuala Lumpur-Tashkent route is a strategic milestone in AAX’s continued growth across Asia and beyond. Central Asia presents immense potential, with Uzbekistan’s economy growing steadily and a rising middle class eager to explore new destinations. We have seen a strong and growing demand for Central Asia following our successful Almaty route, and our vision is to create a comprehensive network that supports regional development and also connects people to these less-explored destinations whilst creating unforgettable travel experiences along the way. This year, as of May, Almaty has quickly emerged as one of the top Fly-Thru destinations from Singapore, contributing to more than 10% of the overall load.”

As AAX expands its foray into Central Asia, opening up more adventurous travel opportunities for Singaporeans to explore the stunning city of Uzbekistan, the airline is offering special promotional fares flying from Singapore to Tashkent via Fly-Thru in Kuala Lumpur, from as low as SGD391* all-in-one way. The promotional fares are available for booking on the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com until 6 July 2025, for travel between 15 October 2025 and 14 September 2026.

Nestled in the heart of Uzbekistan, its capital, Tashkent, is a thriving city renowned for its majestic Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars, and lush parks. As the country’s largest city and economic hub, Tashkent boasts a growing tourism sector and expanding business opportunities, making it an increasingly popular destination for both leisure and commerce.

Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Tashkent (TAS):

*All-in-one way fares start from SGD391 and are inclusive of passenger service charges, regulatory charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. T&C apply.

Qatar Airways resumes flights to Doha

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TTR WEEKLY
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DOHA, Qatar, 25 June 2025: Qatar Airways confirmed on Tuesday the reinstatement of flights to and from its home base, Doha, following the reopening of airspace in the State of Qatar

In a press statement released on 24 June, it said the “focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly.”

Photo credit: Qatar Airways.

The airline reported it is working with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to restore operations as quickly as possible.

“We have also deployed additional ground staff at Hamad International Airport and other key airports to assist affected passengers by minimising disruptions and offering the utmost care and support to all customers.

“As operations resume, we anticipate significant delays to our flight schedule and advise passengers to check qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways mobile application ahead of travel.”

Reports confirm Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, Qatar, is currently operational on 24 June following a temporary suspension of flights on Monday, 23 June 2025, due to the closure of Qatari airspace following escalating regional tensions and an Iranian missile attack on a US military base in Qatar.

The airport is working to clear the backlog of hundreds of cancelled or diverted flights.

Passengers are strongly advised to check the latest updates directly with airlines or consult the official website of Hamad International Airport (dohahamadairport.com) for the most current flight information before travelling to the airport.

Flights disrupted to Doha and Dubai

Based on information available from the past 24 hours, the following airlines have yet to confirm the resumption of flights to and from Doha and Dubai.

Emirates: Due to the regional situation, some Emirates flights were rerouted en route to Dubai on 23 June, but there were no diversions. After a thorough and careful risk assessment, Emirates will continue to operate flights as scheduled, using flight paths well distanced from conflict areas. Some flights may incur delays due to longer re‑routings or airspace congestion.

American Airlines has not yet fully resumed flights to Doha.

Finnair suspends flights to Doha until 30 June.

United Airlines paused daily service between Newark Liberty International Airport and Dubai (a major hub often linked with Doha travel) and stated it would resume “when it’s safe.”

Air Canada has suspended its daily non-stop service from Toronto to Dubai and has warned the suspension could be extended.

Air India suspended all operations to the Middle East, as well as flights to the east coast of North America and Europe.

Kuwait Airways suspended flight departures from Kuwait temporarily on 23 June 23, impacting Doha connections.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has cancelled all flights from Pakistan to Qatar, Bahrain, Dubai, and Kuwait until further notice.

Iberia scrapped a plan to resume flights to Doha on 24 June after the latest airspace closures.

RAYS shines on Rainforest Youth Tourism Summit

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUCHING, 24 June 2025: The second annual Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2025 concluded in Kuching last week, bringing together young changemakers, environmental leaders, and indigenous voices from around the world to collaborate on building a greener, more equitable world.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak YB Karim Hamzah believes RAYS has the potential to grow into a global movement to empower and nurture a generation of responsible global citizens who lead climate action while staying true to their cultural heritage, BESarawak reported in a Facebook post.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak, YB Karim Hamzah.

The minister expressed his profound belief “in the power of youth and promise of culture,” which set an inspiring tone for the summit’s dialogues and initiatives.

The event was opened by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah – Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts.

Also in attendance at the Rainforest Youth Summit 2025 (RAYS 2025) were:
YB Dato Dennis Ngau – Chairman of Sarawak Tourism Board;
YB Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat – Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports & Entrepreneur Development;
YB Datuk Sebastian Ting – Deputy Minister for Tourism, Sarawak;
YB Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu – Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports & Entrepreneur Development, Sarawak (Youth and Sports Development);
Puan Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor – CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board

The Pacific Asia Travel Association CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid, who also joined the 18-20 June event, noted in a LinkedIn post that “this year’s Summit was more vibrant than ever, bringing together nearly 700 passionate youth from across ASEAN and beyond. We look forward to continued collaboration with STB and RAYS in the years ahead.”

For more information on BESarawak, visit: Business Events Sarawak

(Source: BESarawak)

ITE2025 achieves mega event targets

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 24 June 2025: Hong Kong’s top travel show ITE2025 concluded last week, having made significant strides to enhance visitor quality and quantity, both travel consumers and trade visitors.

The fifth live edition since 2021 (post-COVID-19 pandemic) ITE2025 convened from 12 to 15 June at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The first two days focused on trade visitors, of whom over half were non-Hong Kong residents before the show doors opened to travel consumers.

Photo credit ITE2025. Selling a weekend Getaway to Korea.

Launched nearly 40 years ago, this year’s edition co-located the 39th ITE Leisure and the 20th ITE MICE, prompting the Hong Kong government to designate the show as a “mega event”.

Trade days attracted 7626 buyers and trade visitors, up 8.6%. Geographically, 46.8% hailed from Hong Kong, 33% from the Chinese Mainland and 20.2% from overseas.

In particular, there was a strong turnout of trade visitors from the Greater Bay Area cities, both individuals and official delegations from travel trade associations. 45.7% of trade visitors (travel agents or tour operators), 15.3% MICE/corporate, and 6.1% media.

Show organiser TKS Exhibition Services noted that the increase in visitors was partly due to the high profile of international exhibitors, who made up 90% of the show space, and the addition of 135 informative trade and public seminar sessions. The show statistics indicated that 502 exhibitors from 64 countries participated in ITE2025.

Organised by TKS Exhibition Services Ltd, the annual event is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, China, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Macau Government Tourism Office and the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong.

The next ITE Hong Kong will be held from 11 to 14 June 11 2026 at Halls 1 and 2 of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

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