Hong Kong trade agency reports smooth start to mainland firms' overseas expansion scheme
Hong Kong Trade Development Council says its programme helping mainland Chinese companies expand abroad has had a smooth start. A forum at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai will discuss Hong Kong's role in the country's 15th Five-Year Plan. The agency plans to upgrade its SME service c
The Ministry of Commerce of China, the Hong Kong SAR government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will hold a Hong Kong sub-forum on Wednesday in Shanghai on the sidelines of the China International Import Expo and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum. The sub-forum, themed “Aligning with the 15th Five-Year Plan, Serving National Development, New Opportunities for Hong Kong”, is expected to be attended by Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, who will deliver a speech.
HKTDC Deputy Executive Director and China Mainland Head Chung Wing-hei told RTHK that the sub-forum will discuss Hong Kong’s role in promoting the country’s high-level opening up during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, the city’s development in innovation, technology, finance and trade, and the role of the Northern Territories.
Chung said the “mainland enterprises going overseas” task force, of which HKTDC is a member, held its first large-scale promotional event in Shanghai last November. Asked about the task force’s achievements over the past year, Chung said the initial stage had been very smooth, with many mainland companies choosing to set up in Hong Kong first when going abroad. He said Hong Kong must accurately connect with the overseas expansion needs of mainland enterprises. However, he noted that due to geopolitical factors, the process is not always smooth sailing and requires more support.
Chung said HKTDC is preparing to upgrade its SME service centre facilities at the Wan Chai Exhibition Centre to serve as a “Global Connect” service centre for exchanges and matchmaking. HKTDC will also continue to hold promotional briefings on the mainland to introduce Hong Kong’s functions for overseas expansion.