The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has expressed strong support for the 2025 Policy Address delivered by Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee, describing it as a comprehensive set of initiatives that will inject momentum into Hong Kong's continued growth. The address outlines measures to deepen international exchange and cooperation, support mainland enterprises in overseas expansion, and enhance Hong Kong's position as a global business hub.
Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, said the policy address reflects the Hong Kong SAR Government's commitment to innovation and excellence. He highlighted key measures such as the establishment of the Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global, the creation of the Economic and Trade Express, an injection of $1.43 billion into the BUD Fund, and support for the HKTDC's E-Commerce Express and Hong Kong Shopping Festival. These initiatives showcase Hong Kong's role as a superconnector, super value-adder, and a high value-added supply chain service centre.
The Chief Executive unveiled the GoGlobal Task Force, to be steered by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, and the Economic and Trade Express, jointly formed by Economic and Trade Offices, overseas offices of InvestHK, and the HKTDC. These efforts aim to help Hong Kong enterprises expand overseas and assist mainland companies in going global via the Hong Kong platform, tapping into new markets and business opportunities.
In addition, the Hong Kong SAR Government and HKTDC will bolster intellectual property (IP) financing at the Business of IP Asia Forum to promote Hong Kong as a regional IP trading centre. Prof Ma noted that amid significant changes in international trade and supply chains, the HKTDC will leverage its network of 51 offices in mainland China and overseas, as well as years of experience in business matching through conferences and exhibitions, to actively support the initiatives proposed in the Policy Address.
The HKTDC has been committed to helping SMEs embrace innovation and technology, enhancing their competitiveness in areas such as digital transformation and supply chain solutions. The Chief Executive proposed various measures to support the continued organisation of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival under the HKTDC's E-Commerce Express, covering mainland and ASEAN e-commerce markets. The proposed implementation of the Creativity • E-commerce - Beyond Limits programme by organisations including the Hong Kong SAR Trade and Industry Department and the HKTDC, as well as promotion of trade digitalisation to lower costs and improve efficiency, were also highlighted.
Prof Ma welcomed these measures, noting they will strengthen the competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises and products in the international market. The HKTDC will continue to align with overall national development and the policy direction of the Hong Kong SAR Government to support SMEs, bring together the business community, and proactively attract mainland enterprises to use Hong Kong as a platform to go global, driving reform, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.
