From 14 to 16 April 2025, the 8th International Master Chef Charity Gala Dinner was held for the first time in mainland China, taking place at the picturesque Xueye Lake International Conference Centre in Laiwu, Jinan.
The landmark event brought together over 2,300 distinguished chefs from around the globe, including overseas Chinese chefs, culinary celebrities, and Michelin-starred talent – setting a new attendance record.
Fundraising Event
The gathering wasn’t just a celebration of world-class culinary skill, but a powerful act of generosity, raising more than RMB10 million for the Jinan Charity Federation and Shanghai Charity Foundation, supporting public welfare and development programs.
Since its debut in 2014, this event has travelled across Asia and Oceania, with previous conferences held in cities such as Taipei, Melbourne, Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore and Hong Kong. The 2025 edition marked an exciting new chapter, highlighting China’s flourishing foodservice industry while fostering global culinary exchange and innovation.
As a longstanding supporter and strategic partner of the event, Lee Kum Kee once again took centre stage, underscoring its reputation as a global leader in Chinese sauces and condiments.
The gala was attended by high-profile guests, including Yang Li, Vice Mayor of Jinan; Ip Sio Man, President of the International Master Chef Charity Association; Yang Liu, President of the China Cuisine Association; Dodie Hung, Executive VP – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee; and Ross Tang, General Manager – Marketing of Lee Kum Kee China.
“This isn’t just a meeting of the world’s top chefs – it’s a global celebration of Chinese Flavours and Love,” said Yang Liu. “It’s a shining example of chefs using their craft to give back.” During the event, Dodie Hung accepted an Outstanding Contribution award on behalf of Lee Kum Kee.
Celebrity Showcase
The three-day program featured four main highlights:
- The 8th International Master Chef Charity Gala Dinner
- A Global Flavours Tasting Dinner
- A Chinese Food Exhibition
- The International Chef Influence Forum & ‘10 Celebrity Chefs Showcase’
Throughout the event, chefs showcased their talents using Lee Kum Kee products, crafting standout dishes such as Shandong-style Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallions, State Banquet Cuttlefish Roe Soup, and Premium Oyster Sauce Braised South African Dried Abalone, offering a glimpse into the richness and diversity of Chinese cuisine.
The ‘10 Celebrity Chefs Showcase’ saw top chefs delivering live demonstrations, with Master Chef Lu Yongliang opening the segment with an inspiring address: “Preserving the artisan spirit, spreading love, and sharing the taste of China.”
At the Global Flavours Tasting Dinner, more than 300 Lee Kum Kee sauces and condiments were featured, inspiring chefs from 26 countries and regions to push creative boundaries and explore bold new culinary fusions.
The Chinese Food Exhibition featured Lee Kum Kee’s “Extraordinary Taste of China” showcase, which included the launch of a limited-edition Premium Oyster Sauce, tailored specially for the event.
“Lee Kum Kee’s guiding principle, ‘Si Li Ji Ren’ – thinking of others – is closely aligned with the spirit of this gala,” said Ross Tang. “By offering high-quality sauces and condiments, we empower chefs and families worldwide to explore Chinese cuisine, promote our food culture, and bring ‘Chinese Flavours’ to tables across the globe.”
Founded in 1888, Lee Kum Kee has long been a household name and a trusted partner in both professional kitchens and homes. With a range of over 300 products, the brand is committed to connecting people through shared meals, cultural traditions, and culinary creativity.
One Hundred Countries
Headquartered in Hong Kong, the company now reaches consumers in over 100 countries and regions, underpinned by its dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
The 2025 gala was jointly hosted by the International Master Chef Charity Association and the Shandong Catering Industry Association, with support from the Asian Culinary Culture Promotion Association and World Chefs Association.
As part of the event, master chefs visited charitable organisations in Jinan, personally delivering the RMB10 million in donations. The opening forum also brought together Chinese and overseas Chinese culinary masters, including experts in various Chinese regional cuisines, along with leaders in hospitality and the food industry, sparking rich discussion and cultural exchange.
