Hong Kong Forum Highlights City's Role as Global Business Connector Amid New International Dynamics

The 26th Hong Kong Forum concluded successfully after attracting more than 320 representatives from Hong Kong business associations worldwide and business leaders from 33 countries and regions. Jointly organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, the two-day event focused on how enterprises can leverage Hong Kong's distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support from the Chinese Mainland while being closely connected to the world as an ideal springboard for expanding abroad.

Margaret Wong, Chairperson of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, noted that this year's forum featured many exciting highlights allowing associations to share experiences and insights across regions. The event provided opportunities to discuss collaborations between different business associations, Hong Kong business leaders, and cross-association collaborations. New initiatives included local visit tracks and networking sessions specifically designed for young members.

Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, emphasized that more mainland businesses are ready and keen to expand internationally. As a core member of the GoGlobal Task Force, with the support of 13 mainland offices, the HKTDC will help mainland enterprises connect with service providers in Hong Kong, including financial, legal, intellectual property and accounting professionals, and match them with partners and buyers in target overseas markets. Chong outlined the HKTDC's strategic direction for the coming year, stating they will begin another three-year plan to reinforce Hong Kong's role as superconnector and super value-adder, linking the Chinese Mainland and the world.

During a newly added "Dialogue with the HKTDC Chairman" session hosted by Margaret Wong, Professor Frederick Ma, HKTDC Chairman, stated that amidst growing economic and commercial interactions between China and global markets, Hong Kong solidifies its role as a superconnector and super value-adder. Hong Kong offers unique advantages including a stable financial infrastructure, a robust legal system, a diverse talent pool and comprehensive professional services. Professor Ma mentioned that the HKTDC will enhance its flagship events, including the Asian Financial Forum (AFF) to be held from 26 to 27 January 2026, to enhance business elements. A Global Business Summit will be introduced to extend AFF beyond the financial sector with a view to engaging commercial leaders across industries, particularly in high-growth sectors.

At the "Hong Kong: The Launchpad for Navigating Global Markets" plenary, Peter Yan, Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises of the HKSAR Government, shared the stage with business leaders from international companies. The discussion covered analyzing global business environments and trends exploring how international enterprises can leverage Hong Kong as a strategic springboard for global market expansion. They highlighted Hong Kong's unique advantages, including its role as a gateway to the Chinese Mainland and Asia, access to a diverse consumer base, and a highly internationalized business environment.

The thematic session "Creative Minds and Strategic Innovation in Fuelling Hong Kong's Economic Future" explored how creativity and innovation can inject new momentum into Hong Kong's economic and cultural development, and how imaginative thinking can help address contemporary challenges and seize emerging opportunities. The "From Idea to Impact: Building a Thriving Business in Technology" plenary put the spotlight on business leaders from innovative tech companies who shared insights on identifying market needs, developing sustainable business models, and tackling challenges faced during growth stages.

This year's forum introduced a new "Meet the Mentor" session, inviting Andy Ann, the Chairman and CEO of NDN Group to engage with young entrepreneurs to share valuable advice and practical experience on entrepreneurship. The event was co-organized with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce's Young Executives Club, providing opportunities for young members to connect with local young talent and explore new business opportunities. During the forum, arrangements were made by the HKTDC for representatives to visit Hong Kong's innovation and technology infrastructure and cultural and design projects, including the Data Technology Hub and Advanced Manufacturing Centre at Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, the Hong Kong Productivity Council, and the M+ Museum.