People flocked to Victoria Park in Wan Chai to enjoy one of Hong Kong's largest outdoor fairs. Organised by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the Brands and Products Expo opened on Saturday and will run until January 6. This year's event saw 900 booths set up, with some offering discounts, including HK$1 special deals. A lady said she had not been to the fair for many years, and this time, she bought a bag of medicinal herbs. "It's a steal. I didn't line up for too long. You can't imagine how happy I am because I got so many things for just HK$1. It would originally cost at least HK$100," she told RTHK. Another woman said she arrived at the venue four hours early to make sure she got what she was looking for. "Abalones and fish maw. I will make soup and other delicious dishes. It's almost new year and also the winter solstice," she said. Financial Secretary Paul Chan also visited the Expo, and bought soup packs, shiitake mushrooms, dried shrimps and egg rolls. The association's chairman Wingco Lo said Hong Kong's retail market had been facing various challenges, but with the festive atmosphere and the resumption of the multi-entry visas for Shenzhen residents, he's confident with the sales from the fair.
