25th Hong Kong Forum Conclusion

The 25th Hong Kong Forum concluded successfully on December 4, 2023, with a keynote luncheon featuring John Lee, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), as the Guest of Honour. During his address, Lee asserted that “Hong Kong is the world’s super connector,” highlighting the city’s attractiveness to businesses and investors due to its pro-business environment, efficient tax system, advanced infrastructure, and unrestricted movement of people and goods.

Lee emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting economic opportunities through various initiatives over the past two years. Notably, he mentioned the development of eight centres of excellence as outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan, alongside the ambitious Northern Metropolis project, which is expected to serve as a crucial engine for Hong Kong’s economic future. The city has also established programs like Hong Kong Talent Engage and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, aimed at enhancing its strategic value and attracting global talent and corporations.

Legal Framework and Future Growth: The Northern Metropolis Initiative

At the forum, discussions underscored the importance of Hong Kong's legal system and international cooperation in maintaining its status as a premier financial hub. Rimsky Yuen, a former Secretary for Justice, highlighted how Hong Kong’s common law framework and judicial independence bolster its reputation as a transparent and reliable business destination.

The Northern Metropolis initiative was presented as a pivotal development, promising to invigorate Hong Kong’s economy through technological innovation. Vic Yau, Director of the Northern Metropolis Co-ordination Office, provided insights into how this initiative could fortify Hong Kong’s position as a dual engine of finance and technology, particularly within the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Sustainable Practices and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Sustainability was another focal point of the forum, with local business leaders showcasing their strategies for green transformation across various sectors. Notable speakers included Adriel Chan from Hang Lung Group and Joseph Law of CLP Power, who shared innovative approaches to sustainability, inspiring attendees to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.

The forum also featured a panel of young entrepreneurs, including Sidhant Gupta and Carla Martinesi, who discussed their startup experiences in fostering innovation and transforming traditional business models. Their insights into how fresh ideas and technologies drive entrepreneurship resonated with many in attendance, showcasing the vitality of the city's startup ecosystem.

Expanding International Ties

The forum marked the addition of the Spain-Hong Kong Business Association to the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide (FHKBAW). This highlights the growing interest from European nations in strengthening business connections with Hong Kong, reflecting the city’s ongoing role as a critical economic bridge.

Logistics Insights and Future Prospects

Over the event's two days, FHKBAW representatives explored key logistics facilities such as Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals and Cainiao Smart Gateway, aiming to deepen their understanding of the logistical advancements in Hong Kong. This exploration is vital as the city positions itself to leverage its strategic location as a logistics hub.

The Hong Kong Forum remains the annual flagship event of the FHKBAW, a network founded in 2000 that connects 49 business associations representing approximately 11,000 professionals worldwide. This year's event has not only illustrated Hong Kong's robust economic strategies but also reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration in the dynamic landscape of international business.