Local design and building professions are invited to join a concept design competition for the development and construction of the Hong Kong Pavilion at the World Exposition 2010 Shanghai China.

The Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Bureau said today the pavilion will form part of the China Pavilion and the competition will help tap the best creative ideas of local professionals.

The pavilion will be built on a stand-alone site and should display distinct Hong Kong characteristics on the theme 'Hong Kong - A City with Unlimited Potential' highlighting the city's achievements in sustainable urbanisation and how its quality city life can be enhanced infinitely in a place with limited land resources.

The competition is open to individuals or teams. Entries must be submitted by 6pm on March 13. There are five prizes - $200,000 first prize; $30,000 second prize and $10,000 for honourable mentions.

A seven-member jury chaired by Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang will select the winning entries. Results will be announced in early April.

The Shanghai Expo will be held May 1 to October 31, 2010 in Shanghai under the theme 'Better City, Better Life'. Hong Kong is taking the opportunity to demonstrate to visitors its strengths and attractions, including its quality city life, connectivity, sustainable development and position as a creative capital and cosmopolitan city.

The competition is jointly organised by the Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Bureau and the Architectural Services Department with the Hong Kong Institute of Architects sponsoring. Click here for more details.