Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, took to the airwaves on September 18 to discuss the city's first Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2026-2030) and his fifth Policy Address, both unveiled on September 16. In a radio phone-in program, Lee detailed five main objectives: better livelihoods, economic breakthroughs, expanded global competitiveness, accelerated Northern Metropolis development, and better service to the country.
On global competitiveness, Lee stressed Hong Kong's international status as a core strength. "The strength of Hong Kong is its international status, and we have been emphasising on how we ensure the internationalism or the 'internationalness' of Hong Kong. We are expanding to cover every part of the world where we can reach," he said, noting the government's global network of Economic and Trade Offices, Invest Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Trade Development Council offices. Since taking office four years ago, Lee has led delegations to ASEAN, the Middle East, and Central Asia, with colleagues frequently visiting African nations like South Africa and Kenya.
Lee highlighted the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) headquarters in Hong Kong, an organization with United Nations status, as a testament to the city's global influence. He also announced that an international office under the global network of corruption prevention authorities would be established in Hong Kong. "Hong Kong is an international city, which not just is very good at doing business, but is exercising its responsibility as a global participator, and also, we really can contribute," he said, adding that Hong Kong aims to be a contributor and driver, sharing experiences and learning from others.
The Northern Metropolis (NM) project, a key focus of the plan, represents about one third of Hong Kong's geographical area. Lee described it as a "big piece of land that gives us new opportunities" to upgrade both accommodation and development. Beyond traditional strengths in finance, shipping, and trade, the NM will diversify industries, create jobs, and align with national development. "The NM is actually mentioned in our country's 15th Five-Year Plan. That means it is not just a Hong Kong development, it has been elevated as a state-driven project," Lee said, expressing confidence that the Central Government will support its success. He noted the Five-Year Plan allows Hong Kong to capitalize on state opportunities while remaining fully connected internationally.
On artificial intelligence, Lee emphasized balancing opportunities with risks such as crime, fraud, and impacts on youth. "While we develop and ensure people understand and use it, we also need to tell everybody the potential risks that it will bring," he said. The government will create a Commissioner for AI to set policy, coordinate resources, issue guidelines, and develop AI across the whole government, with the aim of sharing Hong Kong's experience globally.
These initiatives underscore Hong Kong's dual role as a global connector and an integral part of national development, with the Five-Year Plan positioning the city to enhance its competitiveness and contribute to broader strategic goals. For more information, visit Brand Hong Kong.
