Vinexpo Asia-Pacific closed today after what it claims was its most successful ever show with a 40% increase in visitors on its last show in 2008.

The exhibition, which ran for three days in Hong Kong, attracted over 12,000 visitors to its 880 exhibitors from 32 countries.

Whilst 42% visitors came from Hong Kong and nearby Macau, the rest came from across 25 Asian countries led by China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea and Singapore.

Robert Beynat, chief executive of VINEXPO Asia-Pacific said: "Asia is now the most dynamic and happening market in the wine and spirits world. The total volume of wine consumption is increasing four times faster than the world average and is expected to continue in the next five years.

"Our decision to return to Hong Kong was right; this has been a resounding success for everyone, from the impressive range and reputation of the exhibitors who represent all of the world's major wine and spirits producing countries, to the calibre of the visitors."

Helmut Seibert, managing director of Langguth Wine and Spirits said: "The attendance for VINEXPO Asia-Pacific is very international when compared to other exhibitions"

The event included the Vinexpo Academy which hosted 42 tastings, seminars, master classes and presentations.

Vinexpo returns to Bordeaux next year running between June 19-23.