HKTDC Marks 60th Anniversary with Forum and Reception, Highlighting Hong Kong's Future Role as Superconnector

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) kicked off its 60th anniversary celebrations with the Next 60 Forum and a 60th Anniversary Cocktail Reception on June 17, drawing over 1,000 political and business leaders. HKTDC Chairman Prof Frederick Ma moderated a forum with former chairmen Dr Victor Fung, Peter Woo, Jack So, and Vincent Lo, who collectively brought 480 years of experience to discuss Hong Kong's evolution from a manufacturing hub to an international financial and trading center, and its prospects as a superconnector and super value-adder in a shifting global landscape.

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam officiated at the reception, joined by Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Director-General Xu Weigang of the Liaison Office, Legislative Council President Starry Lee, and other officials. In his address, Lam noted that 60 years in Chinese culture signifies completion of a cycle and the start of a new chapter, expressing confidence in Hong Kong's future under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. Prof Ma emphasized the HKTDC's role in assisting enterprises to go global, deepening international exchanges, and facilitating substantive cooperation.

The forum featured a pre-recorded address by former Chairman Baroness Dunn and reviewed the council's history, including its support for SMEs and adaptation to global changes. Looking ahead, the HKTDC plans to leverage opportunities from the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, support government initiatives, and assist mainland enterprises in expanding overseas. It will also focus on five major industry clusters: Finance and Professional Services; Global Network and Supply Chain; Technology and Digital Innovation; Wellness and Creative Industries; and Consumer Goods and Lifestyle.

Former chairmen highlighted Hong Kong's resilience and adaptability. Prof Ma stated, "The future looks bright. In spite of global challenges, I firmly believe that Hong Kong remains a beacon of hope." The HKTDC's 60th anniversary exhibition zone and celebration activities are available online at https://bit.ly/4ovwn9G and https://60.hktdc.com/en.

The event underscored the HKTDC's evolution alongside Hong Kong, with its network of over 50 offices globally, including 13 in mainland China, promoting Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The council continues to organize international exhibitions, conferences, and business missions to create opportunities for SMEs and provide market insights through research reports and digital channels.