John Lee says HK offers businesses long-term certainty

Chief Executive John Lee emphasized that Hong Kong provides businesses with the long-term certainty they require to innovate, invest, and thrive, despite ongoing global uncertainties. This assurance was highlighted in his opening remarks at the inaugural Hong Kong Fintech Week and StartmeupHK event on Monday. The conference attracted approximately 1,000 government officials and 800 exhibitors, along with 800 startups and more than 30 international delegations.

Lee acknowledged the rapid pace of technological advancements, particularly the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, which is compelling businesses worldwide to adapt to shifting market dynamics and unprecedented changes. In this rapidly evolving landscape, Lee stressed that "certainty" has become an increasingly crucial asset.

He defined this certainty as encompassing clear direction, promising opportunities, and a stable environment for long-term investment, innovation, and growth. Lee pointed to Hong Kong's newly unveiled five-year plan as a testament to the city's continued relevance as a global financial hub, maritime trade center, and aviation powerhouse, while simultaneously accelerating its transformation into a leading innovation and technology destination and a magnet for top-tier talent.

Additionally, he cited Hong Kong's recognition as the world's freest economy, its thriving fintech sector comprising over 1,400 companies, and the significant investments facilitated by InvestHK in more than 550 overseas and mainland firms, resulting in approximately $9 billion in foreign direct investment and the creation of around 11,100 jobs within the first nine months of the year.

Lee further underscored Hong Kong's strategic significance as a source of long-term opportunity through the Northern Metropolis project, which aims to create a seamless pathway from talent and research to commercialization, capital infusion, and global market access. The CEO expressed unwavering confidence in Hong Kong's future, asserting that it holds a vital role in leveraging technological advancements, Asia's growing influence on the global economy, and the ongoing transformation unfolding in China.

Lee emphasized that Hong Kong serves as the gateway to global capital while maintaining proximity to one of the world's most dynamic innovation engines. He celebrated Hong Kong as a unique East-meets-West city built on principles of multilateralism, free trade, and mutual opportunity, fostering an environment where ideas can seamlessly transition from research to commercialization and ultimately reach global markets.