New strategic firms 'to help take HK to next level'

Financial Secretary Paul Chan announced on Thursday the arrival of 18 new strategic firms in Hong Kong, covering various industries. Speaking at a signing ceremony, Chan highlighted that half of these companies are from mainland China. He emphasized Hong Kong's role as a global hub where businesses, talent, and ideas converge to prosper.

Together with earlier batches, the 142 strategic enterprises are expected to inject HK$84 billion in investments and create around 27,000 jobs. Chan expressed confidence in the enterprises' potential to drive innovation, boost economic development, and improve living standards. Among the new entrants, one firm unveiled an AI-powered tool for timely medical intervention in hospitals, while another focused on advancing green and smart mobility technologies.

Chan stated that the government is committed to providing the necessary support to maximize the impact of these firms. The office responsible for attracting strategic enterprises, led by director-general Peter Yan, noted that the influx of specialized R&D talent would bolster the city's competitiveness. Global enterprises have shown increased interest in Hong Kong's strengths over the past year.

Two of the firms planning to establish their Asia-Pacific headquarters or set up local operations expressed their investment intentions, ranging from HK$200 million to HK$300 million over the next few years.