Hong Kong Trade Development Council: Three-pronged support for Hong Kong's economic and trade promotion overseas to assist Hong Kong businessmen in developing new markets.

On May 27, the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of Hong Kong, Edward Yau, responded in writing to questions raised by legislators. He emphasized Hong Kong's role as a "superconnector" and "super value enhancer" in deepening international economic and trade cooperation. The government also values its relationship with the business sector and encourages industry players to promote Hong Kong's latest developments through various activities such as overseas visits and promotions, with the aim of assisting Hong Kong enterprises in exploring new markets. Yau mentioned that the special task force overseen by the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau is actively attracting Mainland Chinese companies to expand their businesses overseas through Hong Kong, offering tailored support services. The task force is working on various initiatives, including organizing official visits led by Hong Kong government officials for Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese companies to explore overseas markets, such as high-potential markets along the Belt and Road Initiative and member countries of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. This includes an upcoming visit to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in early June 2026 with over 60 high-level representatives from Mainland and Hong Kong businesses. Apart from overseas initiatives, Hong Kong has established the "Economic and Trade Single Window" platform to enhance collaboration between the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, InvestHK, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council to promote Hong Kong's economic and trade activities overseas and assist companies in expanding into new markets. Furthermore, the Trade Support Fund (TSF) supports non-profit organizations, including industry associations, professional bodies, and research entities, in enhancing Hong Kong's overall competitiveness through various activities, such as overseas business trips and market exploration in regions like the Middle East, Central Asia, or Southeast Asia. The TSF has funded a total of 32 applications for overseas visits or promotions from 2023 to 2025, totaling approximately HK$57 million. Additionally, the Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme (PASS) supports Hong Kong's professional service industry in executing valuable non-profit projects to strengthen cooperation with overseas counterparts and enhance Hong Kong's professional services and competitiveness. The PASS has received 17 applications related to overseas visits or promotions in the last three years, with seven approved applications amounting to over HK$3.5 million in funding. The Hong Kong government will continue to engage with the industry to review and optimize plans to support businesses in market expansion, ensuring effectiveness and providing appropriate assistance.