HKTDC Endorses Hong Kong's Five-Year Plan to Strengthen Global Trade Role

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has expressed strong support for the new Policy Address and the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030), delivered by Chief Executive John Lee. The plans are forward-looking, strategic, and practical, aligning with the National 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong's strategic development as an international financial, trade, maritime, and aviation center, while also focusing on innovation and technology, cultural, and talent development.

Professor Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, said, "We fully support the Chief Executive's Policy Address and Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan. As we face an uncertain world, setting short, medium and long-term goals will help businesses set directions and remain resilient." He added that the HKTDC is committed to aligning with these plans, including assisting the government to expand the city's convention and exhibition (C&E) facilities.

A key initiative is the Wan Chai North Redevelopment project, which will be steered by a task force led by the Deputy Financial Secretary. Professor Ma noted that as the scale and diversity of fairs and conferences grow, expanding facilities is essential to remain competitive. The HKTDC, with 60 years of expertise, will submit a proposal on the development approach.

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the HKTDC welcomes measures to diversify markets, including strengthening the "E-Commerce Express" program to promote Hong Kong brands and expand e-commerce coverage outside Hong Kong. Other welcomed measures include enhanced funding schemes and encouragement of technology adoption by SMEs.

The HKTDC will step up support through flagship fairs and conferences such as the Asian Financial Forum, Belt and Road Summit, Business of IP Asia Forum, CENTRESTAGE, and InnoEX, helping companies access the Chinese Mainland, including the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), and international markets. As a core member of the Government's GoGlobal Task Force, the HKTDC's GoGlobal Connect program supports Hong Kong's professional services to partner with mainland enterprises for global markets. Measures include deepening collaboration with trade associations, enhancing the Cross-sectoral Professional Services Platform with ESG services, and providing training for mainland enterprises and local service providers expanding to Belt and Road regions in ASEAN, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The HKTDC will also leverage its 50+ offices worldwide to organize international missions and overseas promotions.

Professor Ma concluded, "As we continue to face fresh challenges, I am confident that the Policy Address and the First Five-Year Plan will forge a new path ahead for Hong Kong. I look forward to leading our team on this journey to create more value for our business communities across Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and the world."

This news matters because it signals a coordinated effort to bolster Hong Kong's economic resilience and global competitiveness. For Texas businesses and the broader U.S. market, Hong Kong's strengthened role as a trade and investment hub could open new avenues for collaboration, particularly in technology, finance, and professional services. The emphasis on expanding e-commerce and international missions may facilitate easier access to Asian markets, benefiting Texas exporters and investors. Moreover, the focus on innovation and talent development aligns with global trends, potentially creating partnership opportunities in research and development. As Hong Kong adapts to an uncertain global landscape, its strategic plans could serve as a model for other regions, including Texas, in fostering business growth and international engagement.