Taobao launches Hong Kong retail shop

China’s largest online market Taobao.com and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Design Gallery have launched a new retail channel, hongkongdg.taobao.com, to promote Hong Kong brands on the mainland, the South China Morning Post reported. The online store will only sell Hong Kong designs, ranging from fashion and accessories, homeware, lifestyle goods and gifts. More than 50 brands are available so far, including jewelry retailers Chow Sang Sang (0116.HK) and Chow Tai Fook. Online shopping on the mainland has grown more than 80% a year, reaching about US$36.8 billion last year, HKTDC deputy executive director Margaret Fong said. HKTDC has outlets in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district, the Hong Kong airport and a third location in Beijing’s Wangfujing commercial district.