16 January 2013 – Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Chairman Jack So has welcomed the economic initiatives proposed by the Hong Kong Chief Executive in his Policy Address, which was unveiled today. Mr So agreed that the government should introduce policies responding to the global economic shift to the East and the implementation of the national 12th Five-Year Programme.
Chief Executive CY Leung said that the government must be “appropriately proactive” in developing Hong Kong’s economy by deepening and expanding Hong Kong’s industries. He proposed setting up an Economic Development Commission to enhance the study of long-term policies. Mr So hoped the commission would thoroughly examine Hong Kong’s potential by seeking new opportunities and studying how to reinforce existing sectors, including exhibition and tourism.
Mr Leung also outlined a series of policies supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by exploring the Chinese mainland market and promoting branding of Hong Kong products and services. “As a long-term SME partner, the HKTDC has set up 11, out of its more than 40 overseas offices, on the mainland to help SMEs expand their market there,” said Mr So. “The HKTDC will be in lock step with the government’s direction and help SMEs upgrade to grasp more business opportunities.”
The Chairman also welcomed the Chief Executive’s plan to boost Hong Kong’s financial, legal and shipping services, and promote industries where Hong Kong enjoys clear advantages, including innovation and technology, testing and certification, and intellectual property trading via Hong Kong’s well-established legal and trading platform.
“Those industries are the pillars and shining stars of our economy,” said Mr So. “Enhancing them can surely reinforce Hong Kong’s role as the Central Business District of Asia. The HKTDC will fulfill its important mission by matching government policies and assisting in every way.”
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