HKGCC's "e-Commerce in Real Life" roadshows got off to a flying start on October 11 at an opening ceremony in Shatin. The roadshows, which form part of the ongoing e-Commerce Adoption Campaign, aim to raise awareness of SMEs and consumers regarding the power and versatility of e-commerce.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr Y S Cheung, Senior Director, Operations of HKGCC, said past studies conducted by the Chamber have shown that consumers ultimately drive e-commerce traffic and the adoption rate.

"Without a critical mass of consumers, businesses will find it difficult to justify expenditure on e-commerce solutions. For the moment, the bulk of Hong Kong online consumer purchases are conducted via foreign sites. These roadshows are intended to showcase what Hong Kong businesses have to offer in order to encourage consumers to transact with local businesses," he said.

The eight local companies that showcased their e-commerce capabilities at the roadshows included Blue Cross, Chow Sang Sang, eBay, Hongkong Post, Hong Kong Ticketing, Priceline, Pricerite and YesAsia.

Official guests at the opening included Eugene Fung, Assistant Director-General (Industrial Support) of the Trade and Industry Department; George Leung, Acting Chief Systems Manager of Community, Education and Industry Liaison Division, Information Technology Services Department; Dr Y S Cheung; Mr Charles Mok, e-Commerce Adoption Campaign Committee Member; and Miss Hong Kong 2003 Mandy Cho, First Runner Up Rabee'a Yeung and Second Runner Up Priscilla Chi.