The 2nd Asian Esports Week (AEW) and the 2nd Asian Esport Championship Finals were held from 14 - 16 November at the Hangzhou International Expo Center, highlighting the theme “technology empowering competition and cultural linkage in Asia.” The event reinforced Hangzhou’s position as a leading center for digital sports innovation and a catalyst for regional cultural exchange.
This year’s AEW featured a dynamic blend of competitions, an esports carnival, and an Asian Games–themed exhibition. Titles such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, sim racing, and VR Taekwondo brought together around 200 top players from across Asia, showcasing the growing diversity and evolution of digital sports. The integration of sport, technology, and cultural elements reflected the increasingly global nature of esports and its role in uniting young communities.
World Digital Sports Alliance (WDSA) General Secretary, Mr. Sebastian Lau, delivered a speech emphasising the transformative role of esports today. He noted that esports has become a universal language for the younger generation, merging technology, competition, culture, and education. He highlighted WDSA’s mission to bridge traditional sports with the digital future, strengthen international collaboration, and work with global partners toward a shared digital sports vision. He also recognised Hangzhou’s strong capabilities in event hosting and industry development as a key driver of regional progress.
Huang Haifeng, member of the Standing Committee of the Hangzhou Municipal Party Committee and Director of the Propaganda Department, described esports as a vital platform for advancing Digital China and cultural influence, adding that Hangzhou will continue strengthening the permanent brand of Asian Esports Week.
Jiang Yongzhu, Deputy Secretary of the Xiaoshan District Party Committee District and Mayor of the Xiaoshan District, highlighted Xiaoshan’s strategy of transforming major event legacies into long-term industry growth and building an international esports industry cluster. Hangzhou officials reaffirmed their commitment to digital innovation. The gathering also served as an important platform for fostering cooperation across sectors and for advancing shared goals in Asia’s rapidly developing digital sports ecosystem.
Looking ahead, Hangzhou aims to deepen international cooperation, accelerate the development of global esports hubs, and cultivate a strong talent pipeline. The city’s open and collaborative approach continues to shape esports as a meaningful driver of cultural connection and innovation in Asia.
For WDSA, the 2nd Asian Esports Week demonstrated the powerful synergy between technology and sport. The Alliance remains committed to fostering a connected and future-ready digital sports ecosystem—one that empowers youth, strengthens global partnerships, and supports sustainable development in the digital age.
