Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan will adhere to ‘capitalist system’ and One Country, Two Systems principle – leader John Lee

Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee has assured that the city's inaugural five-year development blueprint, which aligns with mainland China's objectives, will maintain Hong Kong's "capitalist system" and uphold the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. Speaking at a press conference on January 27, 2026, Lee addressed concerns about whether the Five-Year Plan would alter the existing system.

In an op-ed published in local newspapers on the same day, Lee emphasized that the plan would strictly adhere to Hong Kong's rule of law and capitalist system, faithfully implement the Basic Law, and uphold the "One Country, Two Systems" principle without any deviation. He also noted that the plan would preserve Hong Kong's status as an international hub and ensure the smooth flow of capital, talent, goods, and data.

The Five-Year Plan, set to be released alongside the final Policy Address of Lee's current term, will outline the city's long-term development direction and strategic trajectory, while the Policy Address will serve as the annual implementation report and policy focus. Lee cited an AI-assisted analysis of public submissions, which indicated that the public supports the drafting of the Five-Year Plan.