Dongzhi Seminar Luncheon - Back to the classic pillars: Tourism & Trade | Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association (NHKBA)

Dongzhi seminar

Over the years, we have had the privilege of organizing numerous events focused on a variety of themes, exploring the evolving dynamics of industries and innovations. This year, however, we’re excited to take a moment to return to the essentials—the classic pillars of Hong Kong: trade and tourism. These foundational sectors have not only built Hong Kong’s international reputation but also continue to anchor its economy and cultural landscape.

This theme allows us to delve into the enduring impact of trade and tourism while highlighting the ways in which these industries adapt and thrive in a modern context.

We’ll begin by focusing on the pillar of trade, examining how Hong Kong maintains its leading position as a trade hub in Asia. Speakers will discuss Hong Kong’s role as an international logistics center and its support for businesses expanding into broader Asian markets. They’ll share insights on bridging differences in business and market structures, as well as on fostering international collaborations that contribute to economic growth.

The second session will focus on tourism, highlighting Hong Kong’s transformation as a destination—from its traditional attractions to the latest innovations in the sector. Experts from the hospitality industry will discuss developments that enhance Hong Kong’s appeal as a tourist hotspot, emphasizing the importance of cultural experiences and sustainable tourism, and demonstrating how these trends enrich the visitor experience.

Our joint organizers, including the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Brussels, InvestHK, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, will lead the final part of the seminar.

This seminar will provide a comprehensive view of the evolving role of trade and tourism in Hong Kong and their impact on the current global landscape.

Timetable

11:00 - 11:30	Registration
11:30 - 12:50	Seminar session 1 - Tourism Speakers: Jonathan Tho, Cathay Pacific Thomas Harlander en Stephanie Rudy, Rosewood Amsterdam Harco van Uden, ITG Companies
12:50 - 14:00	Lunch
14:00 - 15:15	Seminar session 2 - Trade Speakers: Daphne Reitsma en Denise Snijder, D&D International Marius Koops, RVO
15:15 - 15:40	What's New in Hong Kong? Speakers: Fiona Li, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels Paula Kant, InvestHK Chris Lo, Hong Kong Trade Development Council
15:40 - 16:30	Networking Reception

About the speakers

	Harco van Uden Harco van Uden CEO of ITG Companies started his company in 1998. ITG is the number 1 in exclusive travel in the Netherlands with Experience Travel and has acquired Silverjet Vakanties, the number 1 in luxury holidays, since November 1, 2024, creating a leading travel agency experience group, focused on providing the best of the best experiences. This ranges from exclusive trips to Sir Richard Brandson on his Necker Island to Hong Kong, China Asia with Experience Holidays, Experience Culture (Travel & Culture, Academic Travel and Senior Holidays, all tailor-made).
	Jonathan Tho Jonathan Tho is the Area Head for Northern Europe for Cathay Pacific, based in Amsterdam. He is responsible for leading Cathay's overall commercial, finance, operational, marketing, HR and PR teams across Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Belgium. Since joining John Swire & Sons’ Management Programme in 2016, Jonathan has worked in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland in both commercial departments and regional management positions. Jonathan grew up in London and Brunei Darussalam and holds degrees from The London School of Economics and The University of Warwick. He has also completed executive education at Peking University and INSEAD.
	Thomas Harlander Thomas Harlander is the Managing Director and Director of Project Services at Rosewood Amsterdam. With over 25 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Previously, he served as Managing Director of Rosewood Bangkok, where he led the hotel’s operations from its debut in 2019, establishing it as a premier destination known for exceptional service. Before joining Rosewood, Thomas held senior management positions within the Park Hyatt brand across key global locations, including London, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, Tokyo, and Seoul.
	Stephanie Rudy Stephanie Rudy is the Director of Sales & Marketing at Rosewood Amsterdam. A graduate of Hotelschool The Hague—ranked among the world’s top 10 hospitality management schools—Stephanie is an expert in commercial strategy and revenue management for high-end brands. She brings nearly six years of experience as Director of Sales & Marketing at the Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam, alongside her background as a hospitality consultant. Stephanie focuses on long-term strategic implementation in the luxury sector, driving growth and brand positioning.
	Daphne Reitsma Daphne Reitsma is the Managing Director at D&D International, with over 15 years of experience in Procurement and Category Management. She graduated with a BA in Hotel Management from the International University of Hospitality Management in The Hague. Daphne began her career at Starbucks Coffee Company in the Netherlands in 2009, holding various roles in procurement and category management. Since joining D&D International as Procurement Manager in 2020, she has overseen the company’s growth by expanding its supplier base, customer portfolio, and CSR initiatives.
	Denise Snijder Denise Snijder is the Sales Director at D&D International, bringing over 15 years of experience in sales and project management. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from TMO Fashion Business School. Denise joined D&D International in 2016 as Global Sales Manager, where she developed a strong ability to build cross-functional relationships. Known for her innovative approach, she has successfully launched new partnerships with multinational clients, implementing trendy, high-quality materials that deliver impactful sales results.
	Marius Koops Marius Koops is the Business Development Coordinator for China at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. In this role, he assists Dutch companies in positioning themselves in the Chinese market by providing market information, partner scans, and strategic advice in collaboration with Dutch offices in China and his colleagues in The Hague. Marius previously worked with the Innovation Attaché Network in Taiwan and the Ministry of Economic Affairs in The Hague, focusing on supporting Dutch business interests abroad.