Argentine wines on show at Hong Kong fair

BUENOS AIRES, Nov. 10 (Xinhua) -- Argentina's wine industry "has taken another step towards consolidating" its status as a top wine producer by taking part in the recent Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair, the Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.

"A delegation of 19 Argentinian wineries participated" in the Nov. 5 to Nov. 7 event, the ministry said in a press release, calling the trade show "one of the industry's leading (expos) in China and a gateway to the great markets of Southeast Asia."

The fair showcased over 1,000 exhibitors from 38 countries, and drew some 20,000 visitors, mainly industry experts.

The first two days of the event were entirely dedicated to visiting importers and distributors. The Argentine pavilion appeared in the shape of a bar, wher participants could order a taste of the wide variety of wines the South American country is famed for.

"Argentinian wineries formed part of a tour through Asia, which will continue on to Japan, South Korea and Australia, in a bid to expand exports to the Asian market, considered by experts in the sector as the market with the greatest potential for growth worldwide," the ministry said.

Each Argentinian winery made some 30 quality contacts at the event, in addition to making sales, signing representation and distribution agreements, the ministry said.

The successful outcome of Argentina's participation in the fair "was evident in each member of the delegation's wish to again take part in the event next year," the ministry added.