MUMBAI: The 12th edition of Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (Filmart 2008), which kicked off today (17 March) at the Hong Kong Convention Centre, saw the participation of over 480 exhibitors from 30 countries.

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the Filmart is Asia's major entertainment industry fair showcasing the latest in film and TV productions, post-production services, locations and digital entertainment applications. It promotes Hong Kong as one of the leading players in film and TV production and distribution.

The seminars to be held in the fair include Asian co-productions, film merchandising in this new era of electronic gadgets and digital distribution.

With the theme "Get into the Scene," this year's Filmart has several features. They include:

Locations world - Tax breaks and government support in Asia and the Chinese Mainland, and spotlighting shooting locales.

TV world - Targeted at showcasing new opportunities available in the global TV business.

Animation and digital entertainment world - Showcasing convergence of film, music, TV and new media.

Equipment and post-production services pavilion - Spotlighting one-stop sources for post-production partners and showcasing the latest trends in film equipment.

There is also the Asia Film Awards (AFA), which takes place today. The awards ceremony will celebrate the best of Asian cinema, organised by the Hong Kong International Film Festivals (HKIFF) Society, and sponsored by HKTDC and the Film Development Fund.

Nominees in the best actor category include Hong Kong's entertainment ambassador Tony Leung for his role in Ang Lee's film Lust, Caution.

There will also be The Hong Kong Film Awards Presentation Ceremony (HKFA). These are awarded for excellence in Hong filmmaking and will be held on 13 April at the Hk Cultural Centre.

The 32nd edition of HKIFF kicked off today and will continue till 6 April. It includes screening of almost 300 motion pictures from 50 countries.

On 8 April, there will be a digital entertainment leadership forum, organised by the Hong Kong Cyberport Management, highlighting the themes "immersive media" and "creative digital content."