Tasmania’s whisky industry is gearing up for a major international showing as nine of the state’s leading distilleries prepare to take centre stage at the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair next week.
The event, which attracts over 600 exhibitors from 20 countries and more than 8,000 buyers from around the world, is seen as an opportunity to strengthen Tasmania’s growing reputation for premium craft spirits.
Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, made the announcement at the Tasmanian Whisky and Spirits Association’s annual conference in Hobart, calling it a vital move to boost exports and global recognition.
“This is an exciting program of events, led by the Australia China Business Council Tasmania with support from the Tasmanian Government,” Minister Barnett said. “It’s about telling Tasmania’s story to the world—our innovation, authenticity and the exceptional quality of our spirits.”
The Tasmanian delegation includes Greenbanks Tasmanian Whisky Co., Hellyers Road Distillery, Lawrenny Estate Distilling, McHenry Tasmania, Old Kempton Distillery, Sanyou, Sullivans Cove, Spring Bay Distillery and Turner Stillhouse. Together, they will represent Tasmania at the fair under the ACBC Tasmanian Pavilion, created in collaboration with Brand Tasmania.
The program includes a Whisky Masterclass highlighting the craftsmanship behind Tasmanian spirits and will wrap up with an exclusive Tasmanian Taster event at the Hong Kong China Club, aimed at attracting distributors, buyers and industry insiders.
According to Minister Barnett, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to open up new export markets and create opportunities for local producers. “With the right support and partnerships, we’re helping our distillers access new markets, connect with global buyers and grow their export potential,” he said.
David Morris, Chief Executive of the Australia China Business Council Tasmania, said the trip reflects both the state’s ambition and the growing demand for high-quality spirits from the island.
“Tasmania is producing some of the world’s best whiskies, and the world is starting to take notice,” Mr Morris said. “Hong Kong has long been a strategic gateway to Asian markets, and our vision is to see Tasmanian spirits on the top shelf of every bar across the region.”
The collaboration between government, industry and trade bodies underscores Tasmania’s steady rise as a destination for fine spirits, with its distillers earning international awards and acclaim in recent years. As they head to Hong Kong, the focus remains on building connections and strengthening the state’s export story—one dram at a time.
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