A mega entertainment expo slated for next year could see Hong Kong become the "Cannes of the East", Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang says.

Hong Kong's talents and achievements in the entertainment industry will be showcased at Entertainment Expo HK 2005 from March 22 to April 6. It will bring together under one roof the HK International Film & TV Market, the HK International Film Festival, the HK Film Awards Presentation Ceremony, the HK-Asia Film Financing Forum, and the HK Digital Entertainment Excellence Awards.

Speaking at the HK International Film & TV Market 2004 closing ceremony today, Mr Tsang said the expo, encompassing different media forms like film, television, digital entertainment and music, will be an excellent showcase of Hong Kong's artistic talents, technological achievements and entrepreneurial agility.

"By bringing these mega events together, we hope to provide not just better support for the organisation of the activities but, more importantly, to consolidate Hong Kong's strengths and our position as the leader in the various facets of the multi-media business," he said.

Mr Tsang is confident that with the concerted efforts of the Government, the industries and supporting organisations like the Trade Development Council, the expo can become the "Cannes of the East" in the near future.

He said the already strong foundation of our film industry, coupled with the benefits brought about by CEPA, have provided Hong Kong with a solid platform to seize business opportunities arising from multi-media convergence.