With an extensive history in catamaran manufacture, Lagoon’s superbly designed boats will bring unforgettable memories, says Guillaume Andrebe, sales director, Lagoon and Excess
How did you develop a passion for sailing and how did your experience in the boating industry prepare you for a leadership role in sales?
I developed a passion for sailing at a young age, thanks to my parents who introduced me to boating when I was just three weeks old. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to travel the world on both monohulls and catamarans. When the chance to join the Beneteau Group presented itself five years ago, I immediately jumped on it. Working in the nautical industry in APAC has been incredibly interesting, as many countries in the region are still new to leisure boating. This has allowed me to be part of building the industry from the ground up, which has greatly prepared me for a leadership role in sales.
Could you describe the strengths of Lagoon? What strategies have you implemented to maintain this position and stay ahead of competitors?
Lagoon’s strength lies in its extensive history of catamaran manufacturing. With 40 years of experience and over 7,000 boats built, Lagoon has established itself as a reliable and trusted brand. As part of the Beneteau Group, which boasts 140 years of boat building expertise, we prioritize the quality and reliability of our boats. Additionally, we carefully select the best dealers to represent us and provide excellent service to our owners. Regular training ensures our partners are up to date with the latest technology and techniques implemented in our boats. By consistently providing the best products and services to our clients, we stay ahead of the competition.
What successful sales campaigns or initiatives have significantly contributed to the brand’s growth and success?
We do have a few very popular models that have strongly contributed to Lagoon success and brand image. We have built more than 1000 units of the 42 and the 450 for example. This is unseen in the industry and says a lot about the trust people put in Lagoon know-how.
What efforts are you making to increase the sustainability of your products?
Lagoon is committed to increasing the sustainability of our products. We have taken various steps to minimize our negative impact on the marine environment, from sourcing and product design to production and communication activities. Our new Lagoon 51, for instance, is built using eco-sourced raw materials, including wood from FSC-certified forests and upholstery made from recycled materials. We have also invested in hybrid propulsion solutions and installed XXL-sized solar panels on the coachroof of the Lagoon 51, generating almost 3,000 Watts of energy for onboard service needs. Furthermore, our production facilities in France are certified with ISO 9001, ISO 50001, and ISO 14001, ensuring efficient energy use and responsible waste management. Through collaborations with organizations like Escape to Nature and Anima Mundi, we aim to raise public awareness about preserving the marine environment.
Why would you recommend someone to buy one of these catamarans?
I would recommend someone to buy a Lagoon catamaran because these boats emphasize a lot on comfort and are designed for world travel with friends and family. They are built to create unforgettable memories and moments. Owning a Lagoon catamaran provides a sense of freedom, allowing you to explore the dream destinations and go wherever and whenever you want. It’s a unique feeling that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
Hail Hong Kong: Resilient and resurgent, Asia’s world city still commands attention and captivates the soul
In the annual financial market rankings of world cities, Hong Kong has proudly taken its place in the global elite for decades, usually just behind New York and London. While there is no denying it recently experienced difficult times, few can doubt that Hong Kong remains a great place to live, work and play. What makes it so compelling is possibly its uniqueness – a singular melting pot of cultures and traditions, of the metropolitan and the rugged, majestic country parks, of the local and the international.
Financial powerhouse
Above all, it has a harbour like no other. It was this magnificent natural deep-water shelter that spawned its international trade links and led to its world prominence. Underpinning Hong Kong’s many strengths today is a world-class financial sector. The city is currently ranked fourth in the world on the Global Financial Centres Index and was placed second globally in economic freedom by leading think-tank Fraser Institute in 2023.
Hong Kong is an ideal place to invest and do business, says Louis Chan, Deputy Director of Research at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, who cites various factors behind its ability to attract the global financial and business community. “Hong Kong is a free port and does not levy any customs tariff on imports or exports.
It operates a level-playing field and believes in upholding firmly the Rule of Law. There is complete freedom of capital movement and it has a clean and efficient government,” he notes.
A low and simple taxation system is also attractive for the business community. Its legal system is much vaunted as well: Hong Kong is the third most preferred seat for arbitration globally according to the 2021 International Arbitration Survey conducted by Queen Mary University of London.
Money talks
Chan reels off an impressive list of statistics that see Hong Kong right at the top of the tree in global finance: “According to the UNCTAD [United Nations Conference on Trade and Development] World Investment Report 2023, global FDI [foreign direct investment] inflows to Hong Kong amounted to US$117.7 billion in 2022, ranking fourth globally behind the United States (US$285.1 billion), mainland China (US$189.1 billion) and Singapore (US$141.2 billion).”
In 2022, Hong Kong was the world’s fifth- largest host of FDI stock, as well as the second- largest foreign exchange market in Asia and the fourth largest in the world. It is also the world’s largest offshore renminbi (RMB) business hub, with about 75% of the global offshore RMB processed via Hong Kong. At the end of March this year, the Hong Kong stock market ranked as the fourth biggest in Asia and the seventh in the world.
Well connected
According to Chan, Hong Kong’s world-class infrastructure and sophisticated support services play a vital role in this success, along with its proximity to other markets in Asia, including mainland China, ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and the Asia-Pacific nations of RCEP (the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) that form the world’s largest free-trade area.
Being the most open and international city in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) also brings advantages. The GBA’s economic size and growth, Mainland support policies, increased economic opening, better connectivity and more comprehensive people-centric policies, combined with Hong Kong’s position under ‘One Country-Two Systems’, means the city has a great future, according to Chan.
“The largest economic opportunity for Hong Kong today is extending its roles in the GBA and the rest of Mainland China from being a super-connector to a super value-adder by fostering international connectivity, both in terms of industry and market,” he says.
Expansion of the Hong Kong International Airport should cement its position as the world’s busiest terminal for international air cargo, with the new three-runway system due to open by the end of next year. Harking back to its origins, Hong Kong also remains one of the world’s busiest ports, ranking ninth in terms of container throughput in 2022.
Top talent
Other important factors contribute to Hong Kong’s world status – including its pool of talent. The University of Hong Kong has unseated a top Singapore institution to reclaim its place as the second-best Asian university, behind only Peking University, according to the QS Asia University Rankings for 2024. Indeed, five Hong Kong universities rank in the World Top 100 according to QS.
Hong Kong offers various schemes to attract talent; just one example is the Global STEM Professorship Scheme, which is designed to attract world-renowned scholars to engage in information and technology-related teaching and research in the city.
Investing in the future
Developing Hong Kong expertise in innovation and technology (I&T) is high on the agenda for future success. The government has ploughed more than US$19 billion into I&T development since 2017, aiming to create one of the most important I&T centres worldwide. Hong Kong is also Asia’s second- largest fundraising centre for biotechnology, with close to 4,000 start-ups as of 2022.
The city also aspires to be a global capital for clinical trials and the development of new drugs and medical treatments. Chan notes the establishment of the InnoLife Healthtech Hub in the Hong Kong- Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park will leverage Hong Kong’s strengths in life and health sciences.
The good life
Hong Kong’s blend of diversity and international cosmopolitan lifestyle draw in highly skilled talent. “What makes the city even more attractive is its East-meets-West culture characterised by a fascinating mix of old and new,” opines Chan. It is famous for its superb range of culinary delights and can boast some of the finest restaurants a city has to offer. Its broad, deep pool of world- class talent in finance, tourism, architecture and other sectors benefits from living in a fast-paced city where good food and fine wine are plentiful and beautiful scenery of rolling hills and restful waters is easily enjoyed. A plethora of music and entertainment venues also enhance the joie de vivre.
Arts smart
Acknowledged as a major centre for arts and culture, Hong Kong is now ranked as one of the three largest art markets in the world alongside London and New York. The likes of Art Basel, Le French May, the International Arts Carnival, International Jazz Festival and International Arts & Collectibles Expo, to name just a few, headline a top-notch arts calendar. “These annual events provide art enthusiasts with a platform not just to immerse in the arts, but also to connect with like-minded individuals and talents from around the globe,” says Chan.
National policy aims to reinforce Hong Kong’s status as an East and West cultural melting pot, and the city is set to host the GBA Culture and Arts Festival next year. The West Kowloon Cultural District continues to develop a global reputation, spearheaded by the iconic M+, Asia’s first museum of contemporary visual culture, and the Hong Kong Palace Museum. The latter, says Chan, “boasts more than 900 priceless artefacts from Beijing’s Palace Museum – many of which will be on display in Hong Kong for the first time, while others have never been showcased to the world before”.
Creating and competing
Hong Kong still retains its flair for creative arts and cherishes the artisans and craftspeople who embellish its thriving local arts scene. Other traditional strengths, including the film industry, are set to receive a shot in the arm through a HK$4.3 billion injection into the Film Development Fund and the CreateSmart Initiative, which nurtures Hong Kong as a regional culture capital.
Sporting prowess, which in years gone by received little recognition, is now being cultivated as Hong Kong embraces its standing as a well- rounded world city. Athletes and sports stars are now performing admirably at international competitions, and a major state-of-the-art sports complex is due to open next year at Kai Tak in good time to co-host the 2025 National Games.
2023 Power List: The 300 Most Powerful People in Hong Kong
These are the people who will be shaping the next century and leading the city to heights unprecedented. Check out who made our 2023 Power List 300 here.
The Wild Side: Inventive and artistic, jewellers across the globe are taking the animalistic approach
From ancient gold jewellery to contemporary gems, we have been attempting to capture the beauty of the natural world in our art and ornaments for thousands of years. Animals have served as a source of inspiration for artists, who have discovered materials that may hold the key to their creation’s mystery in stunning stones and rare metals. Our understanding of our own natures is shaped by these projections, which allude to our ancestry and the transition from nature to culture.
The urge to interpret animals as symbols is related to our understanding of what it means to be human and this comprehension links historical works of art and societies. Animal representations served as allegories, artistic inspirations, or emblems of creation, supporting widely-held myths or beliefs. Through the use of wild animals as intermediates, these animal images help us to comprehend the interactions between humans and nature, as demonstrated by top jewellery houses like Cartier, Buccellati and Chopard.
Chopard bracelet
Boucheron ring
Tiffany & Co. earring
Boucheron bracelet
Buccellati brooch
Cartier necklace
Cartier ring
Tiffany & Co. bracelet
Tiffany & Co. earring
Cartier necklace
Boucheron ring
Buccellati brooch
Winter’s Key: The latest menswear collections align on elegance
As the frosty season approaches, the fashion industry unveils its latest triumphs in menswear collections. “Winter’s Key”, our fashion spread for the month of November, encapsulates the essence of these sartorial wonders, where elegance takes center stage. From luxurious fabrics to impeccable tailoring, these collections harmonize sophistication with the inherent beauty of winter.
Look 1
Cap, net hoodie, shirt, long-sleeves, cross- body bag, pants and boots by Givenchy
Look 2
Top, handbag, scarf and pants by Hermès
Look 3
Long coat, shoulder bag, pants and shoes by Prada
Look 4
Handbag, long coat, pants and boots by Gucci
Look 5
Jacket, handbag and pants by Bottega Veneta
Look 6
Handbag, jacket and pants by Dolce & Gabbana
Look 7
Cross-body bag, ring, trench coat, shirt, pants and boots by Dior
Photographer: Jack Law Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Model: Carlos A (Primo Management Ltd.) Hair and Make Up: Heti Tsang
60 fantastic years: The iconic Mandarin Oriental, one of the world’s great hotels, celebrates a significant milestone
Hong Kong’s Mandarin Oriental celebrated its 60th anniversary last month and the luxury hotel remains one of the world’s finest. Since opening in 1963, then known simply as The Mandarin, this graceful building has played host to thousands of guests and remains close in the affections of locals who patronise its fine bars and restaurants daily – many of whom have a particular fondness for afternoon tea in the iconic Clipper Lounge.
Greg Liddell, General Manager of the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, hails the property for having a unique place in the hearts of Hong Kong people and many loyal visitors from overseas. “It was launched as the first luxury hotel on Hong Kong Island in 1963,” he says. “It is where local families have enjoyed special celebrations and where business travellers have held significant meetings and negotiated their deals.”
He believes the hotel is the epitome of contemporary luxury combined with Oriental heritage and remains “a much-loved address for those seeking an exclusive sanctuary in the heart of the city”. He adds: “It is the quintessential ‘home away from home’ for discerning leisure and business travellers alike.”
Initial doubts
With the benefit of hindsight, it is amazing to think that, way back in July 1960 when the idea of building a ‘first-class hotel’ in place of the soon-to-be- demolished Queen’s Building was first proposed at a board meeting of the Hong Kong Land Investment and Agency Co. Ltd, there were many who thought the idea was crazy. A passionate advocate was Hugh Barton, then Chairman of the board, who showed infectious enthusiasm for the idea. According to a book written by Nigel Cameron to commemorate the 21st anniversary of the hotel, titled simply The Mandarin, the project was referred to as ‘Barton’s folly’ in certain circles.
Of course, it is now clear the timing of the project could not have been better. Hong Kong’s economy accelerated over the ensuing 20 years and visitor numbers to the territory skyrocketed, from 315,000 in 1963 to 2.8 million in 1983, as Hong Kong transformed itself into one of the most important commercial centres in the world.
Great reputation
Demand for the luxurious services and accommodation The Mandarin had to offer exploded, helped by the fact that it was quickly establishing a fine reputation. Indeed, just four years after opening, in 1967, Fortune magazine cited The Mandarin as among the 11 great hotels of the world.
Revealingly, this is part of Fortune’s definition of a great hotel: “[It] must be ready for everything, it is not enough that most rooms are faultless; all of them must be, in service as well as in décor and furnishings. It is not enough that the food and wine are impeccable; they must also be served impeccably, even when the restaurant is unexpectedly crowded.”
Every detail was carefully considered during the design stage of The Mandarin. For instance, the hotel lobby was designed to give arriving guests the feeling of luxurious use of space. Many visitors regularly comment on its sense of old-world charm and superb service standards. Its rooms and suites offer interrupted views overlooking the magnificent harbour.
“The hotel is a culinary destination of nine outstanding restaurants and bars with an award-winning spa and wellness facilities; it is truly an urban oasis in the heart of Hong Kong,” says Liddell.
High service standards
The Mandarin spawned the Mandarin Oriental chain of luxury hotels that now spans the world. Liddel says high service standards are fundamental, with every client whim actioned: “What differentiates the hotel is our colleagues and their passion to deliver exemplary service to each and every one of our guests. It is our mission to delight and inspire our guests at every opportunity; every need is anticipated as we aspire to exceed our guest expectations.”
There have been numerous upgrades and improvements to the hotel over the past 60 years. It has been ahead of the curve in some areas, such as incorporating an elegant swimming pool. Indeed, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has been awarded the World’s Best Hotel Spa Brand for the past two years.
Constant improvements
The hotel never rests on its laurels, according to Liddell: “We strive for constant improvement and innovation, as it is inevitably essential for hotels to stay competitive and relevant in the market.”
He revealed that in 2021 the hotel undertook extensive renovations for Man Wah, the much-loved Chinese restaurant that has been delighting diners since 1968. They also opened The Aubrey, offering an eccentric izakaya experience, which is now ranked at number 17 in the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars.
“On the hotel’s 23rd floor overlooking Statue Square garden and the surrounding Hong Kong harbour and cityscape, we have also introduced a brand-new club lounge, The Mandarin Club, to provide a luxurious all-day retreat where our guests will enjoy a host of exclusive privileges and bespoke services including an array of culinary delights from breakfast, afternoon tea to evening cocktails,” he adds.
Ongoing celebrations
The hotel has been hosting special events and initiatives to commemorate its anniversary. ‘The Mandarin at 60 Exhibit’ is a permanent historical archive in the East Lobby for public viewing. They welcomed four two-star Michelin chefs from their sister properties as well as a number of bartenders from Asia’s 50 Best Bars, who performed guest shifts at The Aubrey. The Mandarin Spa took the opportunity to launch new brand partnerships and bespoke treatments, and a limited-edition chinaware collection was crafted and is available for purchase.
“We have also launched The Mandarin spirit in collaboration with Two Moons Distillery, a local zero- waste distillery equipped with its own composting machine, a testament to the hotel’s dedication to sustainability,” says Liddell.
The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong has partnered with numerous local charities in a bid to give back to the community, and staff have delivered thousands of hours of community services. The 60th anniversary gala celebration, which took place on 26th October, was attended by longstanding guests over the generations.
On a roll
Liddell revealed photographs of guests arriving at the glittering party were interpreted live by an AI artist. These real-time portraits, produced in conjunction with Sir Peter Blake and the Studio of Art & Commerce, were painted in a style inspired by traditional Chinese ink calligraphy and compiled into a celebratory collage. The ‘AI on Canvas’ project will be featured on the side of local trams for all to enjoy.
“It is the perfect expression of the innovation, personal service and handcrafted details that have epitomised the hotel since its launch in 1963,” says today’s proud GM.
The roll-call of distinguished guests the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong has welcomed – from royalty to notable statesmen to preeminent businesspeople to famous film stars – grows longer. Liddell believes part of its success lies in its “unparalleled location in the beating heart of Central”.
The hotel has undoubtedly amassed a rich history and reputation as the central hub of activity in Hong Kong. “If only walls could talk,” he muses.
Sensational Ski: Head north for the fresh powder snow of China’s many premier winter resorts
The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics placed China on the global stage as a major winter sports venue and underscored the ongoing success story that is China’s ski industry. From only about 20,000 visits to the ski slopes in 1996, numbers soared to 15 million by 2012, and last year’s sporting fiesta was a further fillip to this burgeoning industry. Plentiful powder snow now attracts visitors from around the world to mountains that historically have played a rich part in Chinese cultural identity.
There are more than 20 large ski resorts across the country in areas as diverse as Jilin, Heilongjiang, Yunnan and Hubei provinces. These resorts obviously gained a huge boost from Beijing being chosen to host the Winter Olympics as many locals suddenly wanted to learn to ski or partake in some way in the run-up to the Games. The slopes across China have been built on the back of successive rounds of investment and this money is crucial to their continuing maintenance. Recent funding has focused on upping the luxury level of hotels and amenities, as well as opening more runs and facilities for beginners.
Northern Exposure
Two of the largest ski resorts in China’s far north are Beidahu Ski Resort in Jilin and Heilongjiang’s Yabuli Ski Resort, the latter being situated about 200 kilometres southeast of the famous winter ice city of Harbin, home of the annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival from December to February.
Beidahu Ski Resort, which played host to the 2007 Asian Winter Games, has established itself as one of the country’s premier ski resorts. Located in a tiny village some 50 kilometres south of Jilin City, the resort has runs over two mountains plus the adjoining valley and is served by an excellent network of gondolas with limited queuing required. It is famous for its steep slopes and boasts the highest vertical drop of any resort in China. The runs from the top of the right-hand mountain would be considered intimidating to most beginners, but recent investment has created slopes suitable for less advanced skiers and the resort now caters to all levels of skiing proficiency.
Most lodging at Beidahu is at the base of the mountain. The original 200-room hotel created for the Asian Games is an option, although five- star accommodation with superior eating and dining facilities is now available. The nearby village also hosts a clutch of decent restaurants.
Covering an area of 22 square kilometres, Yabuli Ski Resort has the distinction of being China’s first and largest destination ski resort and the training area for the Chinese Olympic ski team. After an influx of investment since 2009, the resort has grown considerably and now spans two mountains with a good division of advanced, intermediate and beginner runs as well as an international-standard competitive alpine skiing area. High-quality lodges have been built to cater to more discerning visitors who want somewhere to relax and recuperate in style after a gruelling but exhilarating day spent skiing or snowboarding on the slopes.
Many seasoned skiers believe Yabuli offers the best all-around facilities and ski experience in China. The alpine ski runs here are the longest in Asia, with nine downhill runs, seven cross-country ski trails, six ski lifts and synchronised platforms, and a 90-metre- high alpine jump platform among the attractions. Access to the slopes is facilitated by three chair lifts, three cable-car lifts and a towing cableway. Snow is usually guaranteed as there are multiple snow-making machines to ensure good skiing throughout the season.
Harbin highlights
A visit to Harbin can be combined with a wide choice of skiing destinations. Scenic Jihua Changshou Mountain Ski Resort is located about 45 kilometres from the city in Binxi National Forest Park. This basin setting surrounded by beautiful mountains provides shelter from the severe winter winds. One run here extends over 2.3 kilometres, while another is 100 metres wide, and the vast complex can accommodate 5,000 skiers at any one time. It is considered ideal for cross-country skiers.
Moon Bay (Yueliang Wan) Ski Resort in Harbin’s Songbei district is easily reached from the city centre. It has a comprehensive range of accommodation, entertainment and leisure facilities. Nearby attractions include the Siberian Tiger Park to the north, home to magnificent Siberian tigers in near wild surroundings, and Sun Island Park to the east, the location of the beautiful winter snow sculptures. The Ice and Snow World here features illuminated full-sized buildings made from blocks of ice that stand among the finest examples of ice art in the world.
The skiing at the Window of Eurasia Ski Resort in Nangang district, located within a theme park housing the world’s classic architectural landscape in miniature, is tailored to beginners. Beidahuang Agricultural Park Ski Resort in Xiangfang district is noted for its abundance of seasonal activities aside from skiing, such as horse riding, hunting and dog sledding. The picturesque setting at Longzhu Erlongshan Ski Resort, situated about 60 kilometres from downtown Harbin in the Erlong Mountain Scenic Zone, elevates its attractions including slopes suitable for all abilities. A good choice for the next generation of Olympic champions is the centrally located Mingdu Ski Resort in Harbin as it has a ski run specifically for children.
The city’s International Golf Club Ski Resort is convenient for transportation, hotels and shopping malls. The complex comprises ski training, jumping and snowmobiling slopes, a fishing lake and golf driving range, and ice and snow and entertainment areas. The country’s first ski race venue was established at Wujimi Ski Resort in 1964, 100 kilometres from Harbin. The location – Shangzhi – has earned the title of “ski town of China” as a result. Yuquan Weihushan Forest Park Ski Resort is only half that distance from Harbin and has skiing, skating and ice hockey among other winter activities.
Eastern promise
Recent slopes to be developed include one on the border with North Korea at Changbaishan, about 15 kilometres from the local airport. Wanda Changbaishan International Resort has a fantastic luxury alpine village offering top-of-the-range hotels, restaurants and private condominiums, and it operates a guest pick-up service from the train station or airport.
Skiing at the Beijing Olympics (apart from the downhill competition) took place around the village of Taizicheng in northwest Hubei province, where a cluster of resorts welcomes enthusiastic amateurs. These include Wanlong Ski Resort, a premier ski destination known for its powder snow, the family- friendly Thaiwoo Ski Resort, and Genting Resort Secret Garden, which has won awards for the quality of its skiing.
Chocolate High: Climate change threatens not just our daily sugar rush but farmers’ livelihoods and producers’ bottom lines
Global sugar prices recently hit a 12-year high and cocoa futures spiked to levels not seen in 40 years. These are essential ingredients for chocolate and many manufacturers across the globe are voicing concerns about prices and supply constraints as climate change alters weather patterns.
Cocoa futures are believed to have soared due to fears of a “mediocre harvest”, according to Yves Brahima Koné, head of the Coffee and Cocoa Council in the Ivory Coast, who cited too much rain and little sunshine. Yields of coffee have also been affected by erratic weather.
Some chocolate manufacturers are so alarmed by the hikes in sugar and cocoa prices that they have been literally “praying for prices to drop all year”, the Financial Times reports. Nestle reportedly might pass on additional costs to the consumer on a selective basis for their chocolate and coffee products as input cost inflation continues to bite.
Weathering the storm
Professor Huw Dixon, an economist at Cardiff Business School, believes the cause of high sugar prices is primarily a short-term phenomenon driven by weather – in particular less rain in East Asia and India affecting sugar cane, combined with too much winter rain in Europe dampening beet. He believes the prices of these input commodities should even out, stating: “They may rise in the short run, but if weather conditions are more normal in the next harvest cycle they should return to more usual levels.”
Despite this optimism, the more long-term effects of climate change on yields of sugar and cocoa are less certain. West Africa is by far the biggest producer of the world’s cacao beans, which can only be grown in areas with the specific climatic conditions of good moisture levels and year- round high temperatures. The beans grow best in rainforests and within 10 degrees of the equator.
Academic research has not painted a clear picture cocerning long-term change in rain patterns, but worrying predictions abound, including that about half the cocoa belt in Africa will be unproductive by 2050 due to the effects of climate change.
Chocolatiers feel the pinch
In Hong Kong there are numerous specialist bean-to-bar chocolate manufacturers who are concerned about long-term supply and pricing considerations. Local producer Chocobien makes luxury chocolate using raw cacao beans and cane sugar, including the premium line of Kusa from Pure Nacional cacao grown above an altitude of 3,500 feet in Peru. A tempering and moulding process creates the aged chocolate bar.
According to Chocobien Chocolatier founder Arron Liu, the company has been confronting spikes in input prices of commodities in recent years. “The price of raw cacao beans and cane sugar has been increasing about five to six percent every year,” he says. “This has increased the production cost of our products.”
Despite surging costs, Chocobien has refrained from passing on increased costs to the consumer in a bid to retain its customer base. The retail price remains at the same level as 2020. “This means we are forced to reduce the balance on our net profit,” he explains.
Climate change wreaking havoc
However, Liu worries about the long-term consequences of global warming hitting suppliers and their ability to produce the all-important commodities of sugar and cocoa. “As global warming continues, its influence on the growth of the cacao tree and sugarcane will continue and get worse, which will be reflected in the price as the result,” he says.
He regularly receives updated supply information from their cacao farmers, with reports indicating a reduction in cacao beans every year due to too much heavy rain or drought caused by high temperatures. He believes these changing weather patterns are likely due to global warming or climate change, and fears for the impact on their suppliers and their families.
As to whether these developments will affect the range and sizes of his products, Liu says: “At the moment, it has increased our cost of production, but it might affect our business development in the long term, such as decisions on price range, a more limited scale of production and the ability to compete with other commercial products.”
Growing shift to Asia
Gavin Chan of Gamma Craft Chocolate notes the company has experienced a shortage in certain specific cacao varieties due to heavy rainfall in Central America – for instance, they were forced to stop selling one of their products for almost a year.
He fears global warming could affect the quality of cacao and production size in the traditional growing countries. Alternative sources from newly emerging countries are a possibility, however. “Some new cacao-producing countries like Taiwan, China and Thailand may benefit since the micro-climate may change there, making it possible to grow better quality cacao in regions that we have never imagined,” he opines.
Another local chocolatier, JOL Cacao, has experienced cost pressures due to price hikes in logistics. It makes bean-to-bar chocolate from Fairtrade-sourced cacao beans and cane and coconut sugar as well as chocolate flavoured with coffee beans. They fear climate change will also limit the harvest of cacao beans in the future, eventually leading to price increases. “I am afraid that there will be impact on the quality as well,” says a company spokesperson.
Lower yields, less land
Dr Nick Girkin, senior lecturer in plant soil systems at Cranfield University in the UK, says commodity prices are often affected by adverse weather conditions, which are exacerbated by climate change. “Longer-term climate impacts will result in lower yields and increasing costs, resulting in higher commodity prices,” he says, adding that instability in pricing in the longer term is likely.
His examination of evidence on how climate change will impact the availability of land suitable for coffee cultivation suggests the decrease in area of production is country-specific, but can range from 11% to 60% in some countries. The coffee trade is dominated by Arabica and Robusta and periods of prolonged drought are problematic for the development of flower buds, as are temperatures outside the optimal ranges. “Indirect effects such as climate impacts on pollinators can further affect production,” he notes.
Sustainable solution?
Girkin believes consumption patterns may change. “As climate change continues to adversely affect farmers (and consumers,) I would expect a growing demand for chocolate and coffee that is grown sustainably.”
He adds: “There are various potential environmental solutions that might have potential to build resilient coffee production and the production of other crops.” Pointing to regenerative farming, he notes the strides this has made in conserving water resources as well as minimising agrochemical inputs and reducing levels of soil disturbance.
A recent major survey covering 10,000 small- scale farmers in 18 countries by Solidaridad, an international civil society, highlighted climate change as farmers’ most significant concern.
Experience Classic New York Dining with A Curated Selection of Premium Beef from Eight Nations at New York Cut – Central’s Premier American Steakhouse
A brand-new American steakhouse called New York Cut has debuted in H Queen’s on Central. With an excellent selection of premium beef from eight different nations in Europe, America, and Asia, the restaurant specializes in serving up premium steak dishes. New York Cut is committed to upholding the best standards in beef quality, cuts, rearing practices, and aging processes. It imports beef from the United States, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, and South Korea.
New York Cut takes a contemporary and light-hearted approach to redefining the classic upscale steakhouse concept. The main dining space and bar have an excellent collection of art pieces with a New York theme that guests can admire. Each piece captures the rich cultural diversity and artistic legacy of the city. The restaurant’s unique steaks, which are expertly sourced from all over the world and have rich marbling, soft textures, and juicy delights, are the centrepiece of the menu. Every steak has a distinct flavour character, and the chef offers nine different secret sauce options in addition to making sure each steak is cooked to perfection.
In addition to its signature steaks, the steak house also offers a range of other main course dishes, including grilled whole live cod, roasted lamb chops, pan-seared pork tomahawk, and a classic grilled whole spring chicken. These specialty dishes showcase the culinary expertise of the chefs, ensuring that both steak enthusiasts and those with other preferences can enjoy an exceptional dining experience.
A variety of traditional American desserts are also available at the restaurant, including the velvety and rich “Black Hand” Tiramisu, the moist and fudgy Marilyn Brownie served with the famed Japanese CREMIA Ice Cream, the delicious New York Cheesecake served with homemade raspberry sorbet, and the fluffy Souffle with homemade mango sorbet that is the restaurant’s signature dish.
New York Cut is dedicated to giving its customers an outstanding eating experience. The beef used in the restaurant comes from a number of nations, including Argentina, South Korea, Australia, California, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The restaurant stands out from other steakhouses because of its dedication to quality and creativity.
New York Cut, 2/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong. Tel: +852 2555 0666
Exultantly Tuscan: Hilly terroir, plentiful rain and super wines characterise the beautiful Italian region
Regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Tuscany is steeped in culture and boasts a beautiful landscape and climate that is ideal for making wine. With a strong regional identity, the capital is the magnificent Florence, while other fantastic places in this tourist haven include Pisa with its leaning tower, Siena, Lucca and Grosseto. With a long-established winemaking tradition, famous wines in Tuscany include the Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Chianti and Morellino di Scansano reds and the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
Tuscany is a very hilly region, with elevated land constituting about two-thirds of the total area, much of which is used for agriculture. The western shoreline touches the Ligurian and the Tyrrhenian seas. It has a fairly mild climate, though further inland there are greater fluctuations in temperature and it can be very rainy at times, which has helped to develop fertile soil.
Magical landscapes
David Reali, who works for Italian food and wine importer Certa, hails his Tuscan homeland as his favourite wine region. He says: “It is named for the pre-Roman Etruscan inhabitants, and has magical inland and shore landscapes with amazing sandy or rocky beaches, mountains, hills and flat areas.”
He recalls fondly the area’s outdoors lifestyle, with locals relaxing over good food and wine, and explains why Tuscany, being packed with cultural attractions, draws so many tourists. “The weather is what I love most about my native region. Plus, the history of Tuscany, especially Florence; my city is called la Culla del Rinascimento [the cradle of the Renaissance].”
As Reali points out, winemaking is a world with infinite variants determined by soil, climate and vinification. Tuscany is a stellar Italian wine area for a variety of reasons. “It is a region with a temperate climate that has significant differences between areas, including variations in soil and various landscapes, which is really suitable for grapes,” he says.
Top crop
He highlights the topography as an important factor. “In Tuscany, 67% of the region is hilly, 25% mountainous and 8% flat. Numerous precipitations, mostly concentrated in spring and autumn, are perfect for the vineyards, although it is starting to be a challenge considering the world climate change.”
The proud Tuscan outlines the region’s wine crop. “The main red wines in Tuscany are Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, while white wines produced here are Trebbiano, Vermentino and Vernaccia.” The native Sangiovese grape – one of the 10 most planted grapes in the world – is the singular star of Brunello di Montalcino and the main component of Chianti Classico and Nobile di Montepulciano, three top wines to which Reali is particularly partial.
Sensational Sangiovese
Describing the tastes and aromas of his favourite wines from Tuscany, he elaborates: “The main characteristics of Sangiovese are red and black cherry, liquorice, black tea and nuances of violet aromas. If aged, it can offer aromas of leather, undergrowth and tobacco. It is typically dry with chalky tannins.”
The region’s famed Super Tuscans, which first emerged in Chianti in the 1970s, embrace non-indigenous grapes, often boldly blending Sangiovese with international varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah to create complex and highly structured wines.
