Record 400-plus HK firms join Shanghai import expo

In the China International Import Expo held in Shanghai, over 400 Hong Kong businesses have joined, aiming to leverage the event as a gateway to the mainland market. This marks the highest number of participating companies to date.

Among the newcomers is a Hong Kong accounting firm that has witnessed a 30-percent increase in mainland clients over the past year, seeking to expand internationally. Man Law, CEO of the firm's greater China division, emphasized to RTHK that expanding overseas is no longer a passing trend but a practical necessity to mitigate risks and stimulate growth.

According to Law, the expo offers an ideal platform to showcase Hong Kong's role as a launchpad for international expansion, particularly through tax benefits. By setting up an office and hiring staff in Hong Kong, Law explained that businesses can benefit from double taxation avoidance agreements with numerous countries, potentially saving up to 50 percent on taxes at peak levels.

Another first-time exhibitor is a craft brewery that is eager to tap the mainland market with its award-winning, locally-made beer. The brewery's marketing director expressed confidence in the brand's competitiveness, noting that many mainland consumers have a strong appetite for Hong Kong products. The expo has also attracted local academic institutions, such as the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

PolyU's vice-president, Zheng Zijian, highlighted that the university has established 12 research institutes on the mainland over the past three years, focusing on innovation projects like robotics and food technology. Zheng stressed that PolyU benefits from the mainland's comprehensive industrial chain and strong government support, emphasizing the university's commitment to deep integration with China through talent, science, and technology collaboration.