How the 5-year plan can serve the nation and deliver for Hong Kong

The 15th Five-Year Plan officially commenced this year, and Hong Kong must adapt to the rapidly changing global landscape, maximizing opportunities brought by national development. In February, I announced that Hong Kong's government would craft its first five-year plan. The task was demanding, with chief officials and department heads contributing to the creation.

The plan was assembled in less than a year, a feat accomplished under immense pressure. Comparatively, mainland cities typically require one to two years for their five-year plans. I owe my gratitude to all policy bureaus and departments involved for their exceptional efforts.

To ensure inclusivity, we sought public input. Following Macau and mainland cities' experiences, discussions were established between the government and the Legislative Council, collecting opinions from six major sectors. Over 17,000 submissions were received, 80% from individuals. Artificial intelligence was employed to analyse opinions, revealing that Hong Kong residents support the five-year plan and champion the preservation of our traditional strengths, such as international finance, trade, and maritime sectors, as well as our aviation hub.

They desire the establishment of an international innovation and technology centre and acceleration of the Northern Metropolis' development.

My aim is for Hong Kong citizens to reap the benefits of development, experiencing happiness and fulfilment. The plan's focus on boosting traditional advantages, developing emerging industries, advancing the Northern Metropolis, deepening the Greater Bay Area's growth, and fostering global cooperation centers on the economy. However, the ultimate objective is to enhance people's livelihoods.

With improved employment prospects and increased mobility for our youth, a tangible reality can be achieved, transforming governance from measures to outcomes.

The five-year plan will not alter Hong Kong's original system, maintaining our rule of law, capitalist system, adherence to the Basic Law, and the "one country, two systems" principle. It will uphold Hong Kong's status as an international city, permit the free flow of capital, people, goods, and information, while harnessing the flexibility and benefits of a capitalist market. As President Xi Jinping has emphasized, this framework must be upheld in the long term.

Hong Kong's five-year plan will be released on September 16, followed by the publication of the 2026 policy address, enabling the public to read both documents concurrently, fostering a deeper understanding of their interconnection. The plan outlines the long-term blueprint and strategic direction for Hong Kong's development, while the policy address serves as an annual report, detailing the government's annual governance efforts in implementing the five-year plan.