Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Louis Vuitton (LV) and LVMH Fashion Group Yves Carcelle said here Friday Hong Kong is a strategic market for the group in the Asia-pacific region.

"Hong Kong is our Asia Pacific headquarters for 14 countries in the region. Its strategic location, its importance as a fashion capital in this part of the world, coupled with its efficient communications make it the perfect city for us to do business," he made the remarks during his visit in Hong Kong for the brand's 150th anniversary celebration.

LV selected Hong Kong as one of the four cities worldwide to host its 150th anniversary celebration. The other three cities are Paris, New York and Tokyo.

Carcelle said the decision was made based on the important leadership of Hong Kong in the global fashion and retail industry, as well as the company's firm commitment to Hong Kong.

According to Carcelle, the company is proud to showcase its brand values to its sophisticated customers through the strategic platform in Hong Kong.

He explained that the celebration represents a vote of confidence in the Hong Kong market, illustrated by its long-term and significant investment here.

A member of the LVMH Fashion Group, Louis Vuitton has more flagship stores in Hong Kong than anywhere else, except for its Paris headquarters and Tokyo. The Louis Vuitton brand has been present in Hong Kong since 1979.
 
(Xinhua News Agency April 17, 2004)