Kudos for new HKTDC website (hktdc.com)


	Users say that hktdc.com is their most important online source for reaching buyers and suppliers worldwide

	Buyers at the Watch and Clock Fair are introduced to the new Customised Sourcing Service

The new online marketplace of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has earned plaudits from the Web Marketing Association (WMA) for outstanding achievement in website development. The hktdc.com site received the 2008 WebAward in the category of Best Small Business Website.

A panel of independent Internet experts judged entries based on several criteria, including design, interactivity, content, technology, innovation and ease-of-use, to target audiences. The hktdc.com's webcast was also recognised with a Standard of Excellence award in three categories: B2B, Broadcasting and Events.

"The HKTDC is honoured to be given this award," said Clare Wong, HKTDC Director of Publications and E-Commerce. "We have added several new features on our new online marketplace. They help buyers and suppliers make the most of our services by integrating our three core products."

Launched in July, hktdc.com helps some 700,000 buyers connect with more than 100,000 quality suppliers from around the world. The website is integrated seamlessly with the HKTDC's international trade fairs and its specialised product magazines. This, said Ms Wong, "creates a 24/7 virtual exhibition, allowing buyers to research and source products and services before and after the trade fairs."

Information verified

Buyers also have the added assurance that suppliers' information on the website has been verified by third-party authentication companies, including Dun and Bradstreet (D&B). The D&B-checked authentication service verifies company information, including company details, business registration documents and contact information. Details on suppliers' US import and Hong Kong and Chinese mainland export figures, meanwhile, are available through data provided by Ge-TS, Goodwill China, Panjiva and PIERS.

"The quality of products I need are always changing," said Swiss buyer Giordano Bruni, who has participated regularly in the Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair since it was first held 15 years ago. "That's why it's important to turn to trusted sources. The new HKTDC website is simpler, clearer and easier to use."

Fastest sourcing

At the September Watch and Clock Fair, Mr Bruni was also introduced to the new hktdc.com Customised Sourcing Service. Buyers can find the right suppliers faster and more precisely, simply by entering a product keyword via a PDA. Fairground staff then provide a list of suppliers, free of charge. More than 43,000 buyers have used the service between April and October, including many who attended the Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) 2008 last month.

The annual WebAwards, organised by the WMA, recognise corporate websites that have set a high standard for Internet marketing and corporate web development.

Many of the judges praised the hktdc.com's ability to present a high volume of information in a comprehensive and accessible manner. "It's sometimes difficult to organise such a wide variety of information, especially when there is so much content to pass along. I think that a good job has been done here in doing just that," noted one of the judges.

Wide-ranging kudos

Since its revamp this year, hktdc.com has earned recognition from two other groups, including the Silver Prize Web Care Award from the non-profit group iProA. It has also received Best SMB Partner in the Trade Portal category from SMBWorld Awards, organised by SMBWorld and Computerworld.

The most ringing endorsements, however, come from end users. "This website is very important to me because it allows me to search for practically everything I need," said Paul Kogan from Argentina. A buyer from Africa, Ambrose Igbojionu, echoed similar sentiments. "It has provided my company with a very useful site for sourcing suppliers, helping us make most of our import decisions."