#Japan #Hong Kong #Tokyo #Trust Bank #Regional Products

Trust Bank to Make Its Debut at the Hong Kong Book Fair

Trust Bank, a leading organization behind Japan's largest local tax donation site, Furusato Choice, is set to make its first appearance at the Hong Kong Book Fair 2026. Scheduled from July 15 to 21, this event will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Trust Bank's initiative aims to promote the beauty and uniqueness of Japan's regions to local consumers in Hong Kong.

This endeavor aligns with Japan's national strategy to enhance regional value and explore overseas market opportunities. Akita and Nagano Prefectures have been selected as model areas, showcasing their rich natural resources, traditional crafts, and renowned sake. The initiative's goal is to engage with potential customers from Asia, particularly those interested in experiencing Japan’s culture and products firsthand.

Focused Exhibits and Experiences

Attendees can look forward to a variety of meticulously curated regional products, including:

• - From Akita: sake tasting, pear sampling, Datsuma-style wooden lunch boxes, sweet sake tasting, and a Namahage photo spot.
• - From Nagano: renowned Kawanakajima white peaches, rice from Eimura, peach juice tasting, and a photo opportunity with Sanada Yukimura's armored samurai.

Through these displays and interactive experiences, Trust Bank aims to identify the genuine interests and demands of consumers, laying the groundwork for sustainable local economic development.

Gathering Feedback and Insights

According to Daisuke Tanaka, Chief Strategy Officer of Trust Bank, this exhibition marks a significant milestone as the company's first overseas proof of concept. He emphasizes the potential of Japan's regions, saying, “Many appealing products, cultures, and experiences are yet to reach international audiences. Our participation in the Hong Kong Book Fair allows us to deliver the uniqueness of Akita and Nagano directly to the people of Hong Kong.”

By collecting feedback and observing customer behavior, Trust Bank aims to learn about market preferences and how to effectively communicate regional attractions to encourage interest in visiting Japan.

After the event, results—including insights and consumer reactions—will be shared publicly to foster ongoing development.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Hong Kong Book Fair
• - Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
• - Booth Number: 5B-E10 (within the Japan Pavilion)
• - Date: July 15 (Wed) - July 21 (Tue), 2026
• - Opening Hours: From July 15 to 20, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; on July 21, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• - Organizer: Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)

Trust Bank's Vision

Trust Bank was founded in April 2012 and has since established the first comprehensive local tax donation platform in Japan. With the capability to process donations for over 1,700 municipalities (covering about 95% of Japan's local governments) and over 980,000 reward items, Trust Bank plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable local economic cycles.
In addition, they offer services like the LoGo series for municipalities and are exploring regional currency initiatives like chiica to further stimulate local economies.

Through continuous efforts, Trust Bank is dedicated to expanding opportunities for regional attractions to be recognized both domestically and internationally, thus contributing to sustainable economic development in local communities.