Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced plans to expand the city's international trade network, aiming to enhance its contributions to China's development. Addressing the Hong Kong sub-forum of the Hongqiao International Economic Forum in Shanghai, Lee highlighted the first major conference since the unveiling of the Special Administrative Region's (SAR) first five-year plan in September. Emphasizing trade as a key focus, Lee noted Hong Kong's status as the fifth-largest merchandise trading entity globally, having secured free-trade agreements with 21 economies and investment agreements with 34. The SAR government will seek to increase its role in China's high-standard openness.
Lee highlighted the urgency of facing the present-century transformation alongside global supply chain restructuring and rapid technological advancement. He stressed the need for proactive planning and a strategic approach to ensure Hong Kong's future prosperity. In addition to trade, finance is another key area of focus for Lee. He highlighted Hong Kong's position as a global financial center and the need to strengthen its role, particularly as the world's largest offshore renminbi hub.
Lee further emphasized Hong Kong's role in aligning with the mainland's scientific research and industrial strategies, aiming to accelerate investments in science and technology and assist mainland enterprises in expanding overseas through the GoGlobal Task Force. This strategic direction underscores Hong Kong's continued importance in driving China's economic openness and global engagement.