FilMart 2026 Sets the Stage for AI, Short Dramas and New Asian Markets

Hong Kong’s FilMart remains a pivotal event in Asia’s screen industry, functioning as a central meeting point for global producers, distributors, and innovators. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), this event has evolved over three decades into Asia’s leading marketplace for film and television content.

This year, FilMart showcases a rapidly changing landscape. The introduction of new technologies is revolutionizing production methods, storytelling formats are evolving at an unprecedented pace, and there is a growing trend of producers seeking international collaborations.

“We are deeply encouraged by the industry’s response this year,” says Candas Yeung, associate director of service promotion at the HKTDC. “It is heartening to see such strong global participation, welcoming over 790 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and regions.”

This year’s event highlights a blend of established regions and new participants. “The exhibition floor features a diverse lineup, anchored by over 30 group pavilions from the Chinese Mainland and key international territories. We are seeing strong returns from major markets like France, the U.K., the U.S. and Korea, alongside a really impressive participation from Asian countries,” Yeung notes.

New exhibitors from emerging markets are bringing fresh content, perspectives, and creative energy, while established industry leaders continue to use the fair to secure distribution and financing deals. Emerging Asian markets are increasingly becoming creative powerhouses. “FilMart has always served as a bridge between East and West, and this year that connection feels particularly strong,” Yeung explains. “It is deeply encouraging to see several of our long-standing partners expanding their footprint.”

In addition to exhibitions, key industry bodies and companies from Cambodia, the Chinese Mainland, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and more are organizing targeted events to showcase their content and promote production incentives. Delegations from Cambodia, India, and Malaysia join established pavilions from Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, reflecting the region’s growing influence in global content creation.

Technology remains integral to FilMart’s identity. The AI Hub, co-organized with the Assn. of Motion Picture Post Production Professionals, returns on a significantly larger scale. It brings together industry leaders such as Alibaba Cloud, Kling, MiniMax, and Vidu, alongside academic partners including the University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and Lingnan University.

Supported by CCIDA and the Film Development Fund, the newly launched AI Academy offers more than 15 hands-on workshops. Yeung emphasizes the practical approach: “We hope to empower filmmakers and producers with the skills they need to navigate this new landscape, moving beyond theory into hands-on application, and help creators master everything from generative text and audio to animation, turning these technologies into practical assets for their productions.”

Short-form storytelling is another key focus. The International Short Drama Assn. launches a dedicated pavilion, joining established players like COL Group and DramaBox. FilMart is hosting a symposium titled “The Wave of Short Dramas: Opportunities of Globalization and Collaborations in the Greater Bay Area,” which will explore cross-border co-productions and the use of AI in streamlining episodic content. “Ultimately, we are actively fostering the synergy between content creators, tech specialists and these emerging formats,” explains Yeung. “We view this intersection as a significant new business frontier, and we are excited to provide the platform for the industry to explore these opportunities together.”

The Producers Connect program returns for its second edition, bringing together over 100 local and international producers along with 10 leading global film institutions, including Cinecittà, the British Film Institute, and KOFIC.

Beyond networking, the program offers fireside chats, masterclasses, and an online Producers Resource Guide, providing practical insights into navigating global funding and partnership opportunities. Group business matching sessions highlight this effort. “By placing new talent directly in the room with industry heavyweights, we are offering emerging producers the definitive place to turn their creativity into international success,” says Yeung.