At the 35th Hong Kong Book Fair, the vibrant essence of Vietnam’s cultural and culinary heritage took center stage, drawing curious visitors eager to explore the country’s iconic dishes and travel destinations. Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the fair—organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)—ran through July 22, 2025, under the theme “Food Cultures and Future Living” providing a fitting backdrop for Vietnam’s rich gastronomic showcase.
A Culinary Journey Through Books
The Vietnamese Consulate General in Hong Kong and Macau curated a booth that offered more than just travel guides; it presented a deep dive into the stories behind Vietnam’s culinary traditions. Visitors encountered carefully selected books that detailed regional specialties, traditional recipes, and the cultural significance of iconic dishes. These publications went beyond mere ingredient lists, weaving narratives that illuminated the heritage and history of Vietnamese food, sparking curiosity among attendees and inspiring many to consider a firsthand exploration of the country.
The booth became a hub of activity, with a steady stream of fairgoers stopping to browse travel guides, pose with the iconic nón lá (conical hat), and engage with the culinary literature on display. The immersive experience offered a glimpse into Vietnam’s diverse regions, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene landscapes of the Mekong Delta, all through the lens of food and culture. 
Promoting Vietnamese Cuisine Abroad
Vietnamese Consul General in Hong Kong and Macau, Lê Đức Hạnh, highlighted the fair as a vital platform for promoting Vietnamese tourism and cuisine to a broad audience, particularly familiesTuesday, July 23, 2025, marked a significant opportunity to connect with families and international visitors. Hạnh noted the alignment of the fair’s food-focused theme with Vietnam’s growing global culinary reputation, emphasizing the increasing popularity of Vietnamese food in Hong Kong. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, dishes like phở and bánh mì have found a receptive audience, pointing to substantial potential for further growth, especially in the affordable dining segment.
Hạnh also urged the Vietnamese community in Hong Kong to collaborate on promoting the essence of their cuisine, facilitating the import of authentic ingredients, and supporting the presence of skilled Vietnamese chefs in the city. This collective effort aims to deepen cultural exchange and elevate the profile of Vietnamese gastronomy in the region.
A Literary Highlight
Amid the culinary focus, Vietnam’s cultural presence at the fair extended to literature as well. Nguyễn Hạnh Phương, Vietnam’s youngest writer of fiction in English, captivated book lovers with her bilingual children’s series, Star Team: A Quest For The Greatest Power. Her presentation added a literary dimension to Vietnam’s showcase, bridging cultural narratives through storytelling and engaging younger audiences with tales that reflect Vietnamese values and imagination.
Broader Cultural Impact
Vietnam’s culinary content also featured prominently in publications by Vietnam Pictorial, a magazine under the Vietnam News Agency. Known for its high-quality design and timely coverage of culinary trends, the magazine’s food section effectively conveyed the vibrancy of Vietnam’s food culture to international readers, further amplifying the country’s cultural footprint at the fair.
With over 770 exhibitors and an expected attendance of more than one million visitors, the 35th Hong Kong Book Fair provided a dynamic platform for cultural exchange. Vietnam’s booth stood out as a testament to the power of food and literature in fostering cross-cultural understanding, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. As the fair concluded, the enthusiasm of visitors—many eager to learn more about Vietnam’s heritage—underscored the enduring appeal of the country’s cultural offerings.
