Hong Kong leader unveils first five-year plan at Bauhinia Culture Forum
Hong Kong's leader addressed the 2026 Bauhinia Culture Forum, introducing the region's first five-year plan aligned with the national 15th Five-Year Plan. The plan focuses on six key areas including economic development, the Northern Metropolis, and international competitiveness.
Hong Kong's Chief Executive outlined the region's inaugural five-year plan at the 2026 Bauhinia Culture Forum on Friday, aligning with the nation's 15th Five-Year Plan and setting a strategic direction for the city's future development.
The forum, themed "Drafting the Five-Year Plan Blueprint, Leading Hong Kong's Future Development," served as a platform to present the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government's first comprehensive development plan, which was released last month. The Chief Executive emphasised that the plan represents a significant step in upholding executive-led governance and enhancing administrative efficiency.
Addressing an audience of government officials, business leaders, and academics, the Chief Executive highlighted that the plan leverages the dual advantages of national and international opportunities. "The nation's robust strength, vast market, and high-quality development momentum present the greatest opportunities for Hong Kong," the Chief Executive stated, noting that the plan aims to clarify development directions, optimise resource allocation, and stabilise social expectations.
The five-year strategy is built on six core pillars: strengthening the "Four Centres and One Highland" status, including international financial, shipping, trade, and aviation hub positions; developing the international innovation and technology centre; accelerating the Northern Metropolis development; deepening internal and external connectivity; improving livelihood and welfare; and coordinating development with security. These pillars are designed to work in tandem to achieve the city's development goals.
Key objectives over the next five years include achieving new breakthroughs in economic development, enhancing Hong Kong's international competitiveness, accelerating the Northern Metropolis construction, and making significant progress in integrating with the national development strategy. The Chief Executive called on the forum's participants to help communicate the plan effectively to all sectors and the international community, ensuring comprehensive understanding of Hong Kong's development direction and future opportunities.
