Financial Secretary Paul Chan said on Wednesday that Hong Kong saw a 40 percent surge in liquor imports in the first four months since a reduction in their duties in October.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of Hofex, an international food and hospitality tradeshow, he said the city's status as a free port, coupled with its efficient customs and logistics networks, positions Hong Kong as a prime location for the industry.

"Hong Kong is not just opening doors. We are opening more bottles, too," Chan said.

"Every day, over 1,000 flights connect us to more than 200 destinations. This city simply gives you the best connectivity to the broader market in the Asian region.

"For wines, we impose no duty, a policy that has been toasting success for years. Last year, we imported approximately 39 million bottles of wines and we managed to consume some 30 million of them. Recently, we also lowered the duties on liquor. The results are also encouraging."

Chan also said Hong Kong is committed to exploring new markets and strengthening ties with Asean and the Middle East, recognising their abundant resources and untapped potential.

He said the number of overall visitors rose 10 percent in the first four months of the year, surpassing 16 million, while the rate of growth for international visitors was even better at 17 percent.

Moves are afoot, he added, to organise more international events to attract high-value visitors.

"If you are thinking of extending the reach of your products and services, Hong Kong is your showroom," he said.

"Come to Hong Kong, and you will find opportunities."