Asian Film Awards Suspends Competitive Categories

The Asian Film Awards Academy has fundamentally altered the structure of its 19th edition. The decision comes as a direct response to the deadly Hong Kong fire that took place last year. Organizers have confirmed that the event will not feature its usual competitive awards.

Furthermore, the traditional red carpet ceremony has been cancelled. The 2026 ceremony, scheduled for Hong Kong, will instead focus on presenting special honors. This represents a significant departure from the standard format, prioritizing a more somber and reflective event over a competitive one.

The Asian Film Awards Academy has officially modified the format for its 19th edition. This change is a direct consequence of the deadly fire that occurred in Hong Kong last year. The organization is shifting its focus away from traditional competition in light of these events.

Key changes to the event include:

• Elimination of all competitive categories
• Cancellation of the red carpet ceremony
• A pivot to a scaled-back event focused on special honors

The decision marks a significant departure from the ceremony's usual format. By removing the competitive elements, the academy is prioritizing a different kind of recognition for the year's achievements in Asian cinema.

The catalyst for these sweeping changes was the deadly Hong Kong fire that occurred last year. While specific details of the incident are not provided, the impact on the Asian Film Awards Academy is clear. The tragedy has forced a complete re-evaluation of the event's structure and purpose.

The academy's response demonstrates a commitment to safety and sensitivity. By scaling back the event, organizers are acknowledging the gravity of the past year's events. The focus has shifted from celebration to commemoration, reflecting a more solemn approach to the awards.

Despite the changes, the 19th edition of the awards is still scheduled to take place in Hong Kong. The event is set for 2026. However, attendees and nominees should expect a very different atmosphere compared to previous years.

The ceremony will now be a scaled-back event. Instead of competitive awards, the program will center on presenting special honors. This format change will likely alter the length, tone, and overall structure of the evening. The academy has yet to release further specifics on who will receive these special honors or the exact nature of the ceremony.

The Asian Film Awards Academy has made the decisive choice to suspend competitive categories for its 19th edition. This move, prompted by the deadly Hong Kong fire from the previous year, signals a major shift in the event's philosophy. The cancellation of the red carpet and the focus on special honors underscore a period of reflection for the organization. As the 2026 ceremony in Hong Kong approaches, the film community will be watching to see how this new, scaled-back format honors the industry's achievements in a more subdued manner.