Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement between Hong Kong and Türkiye to enter into force on February 4
Under the IPPA, the two governments undertake to provide investors of the other side with, among others, fair, equitable and non-discriminatory treatment of their investments, compensation in the event of expropriation of investments, and the right to free transfers abroad of investments and returns. The IPPA also provides for the settlement of investment disputes under internationally accepted rules, including arbitration.
The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, said, “By giving additional assurance of the protection of investment, the IPPA will enhance the confidence of investors and expand investment flows between Hong Kong and Türkiye, benefitting the economic development of the two places.”
“The Government is dedicated to expanding Hong Kong’s global economic and trade networks and has been actively seeking to sign IPPAs or free trade agreements with emerging markets including potential partners in the Middle East and other regions along the Belt and Road. We have largely concluded the IPPA negotiations with Qatar, and good progress has been made for the one with Peru. Meanwhile, we are exploring the signing of IPPAs with Bangladesh, Egypt and Saudi Arabia,” he added.
Hong Kong has so far signed 24 IPPAs with 33 foreign economies. Apart from the one signed with Türkiye in October 2023, the other foreign economies include 10 member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam), Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.
Issued at HKT 11:00
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Speech by SFST at 2026 International Forum for Impact Investing (English Only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by SFST at 2026 International Forum for Impact Investing (English Only)
Regina (Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council, Mrs Regina Ip), DG Zhong Wu (Director General, Finance Center for South-South Cooperation, Dr Wu Zhong), Chairman Bei (Chairman, GSG Impact China National Partner, Dr Bei Duoguang), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It is an honour to join you today at the International Forum for Impact Investing, themed “Impact in Action: Forging Resilient Futures”. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the esteemed organisers for bringing together such a dynamic assembly of thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners. Your collective efforts in convening this forum underscore the vital role of collaboration in advancing sustainable development, and it is fitting that Hong Kong, as a bridge between East and West, hosts this pivotal dialogue.
This year’s theme resonates deeply in our current global context, where the imperatives of resilience – against climate change, economic disruptions, and social issues – demand not just vision, but decisive action. As we navigate a multipolar world, the discussions ahead will illuminate pathways to a sustainable future, from investing in human resilience amid AI-driven transformations and climate displacements, to harnessing technological innovations in agriculture and beyond. Panels on sustainable investments across Asia, the potential of impact enterprises, development finance solutions through blended finance, and the journeys of Asian family offices in wealth stewardship all highlight the forum’s focus on turning impact into tangible outcomes. These conversations are not abstract; they are calls to mobilise capital for a more equitable and sustainable world, and I am confident that the insights shared here will inspire partnerships that extend far beyond today.
Hong Kong is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, leveraging our status as an international financial centre to emerge as a leading hub for green and sustainable finance. Aligned with the Central People’s Government’s 14th Five-Year Plan and our own targets to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050 and halve emissions by 2035, we have seen remarkable growth in this sector. In 2024 alone, green and sustainable debt issued in Hong Kong surpassed US$84 billion, with bonds capturing 45 per cent of the Asian market for the seventh consecutive year. Our Government Sustainable Bond Programme has issued the equivalent of US$32 billion since 2019, including innovative tokenised green bonds – the world’s first multi-tranche digitally native ones and those integrating e-CNY and e-HKD in settlements. These issuances not only fund environmentally beneficial projects but also demonstrate Hong Kong’s innovation in blending fintech with sustainability.
To further catalyse this ecosystem, we have extended the Green and Sustainable Finance Grant Scheme to 2027, subsidising issuance and external review costs for bonds and loans, including transition financing, with over HK$410 million granted to more than 640 instruments by December last year. Complementing this, our Pilot Green and Sustainable Finance Capacity Building Support Scheme, now extended to 2028, has approved over 9 700 applications, reimbursing up to HK$55 million to nurture talents in this field. We are also fostering a vibrant Green Fintech hub through initiatives like the Hong Kong Green Fintech Map and the Proof-of-Concept Funding Support Scheme (Green and Sustainable Fintech Proof-of-Concept Funding Support Scheme), which has backed 60 projects to commercialise solutions addressing industry pain points. On the disclosure front, our Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure mandates publicly accountable entities to adopt International Sustainability Standards Board standards by 2028, supported by the Hong Kong Sustainability Disclosure Standards.
Additionally, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited’s Core Climate platform, with over 120 participants and credits from more than 60 verified projects, positions us as a connector in the international carbon market, bolstered by memoranda of understanding with Greater Bay Area Exchanges.
These initiatives reflect Hong Kong’s commitment to channelling capital toward resilient futures, where impact investing drives not only financial returns but also social and environmental progress. By integrating sustainability into our financial ecosystem, we are creating opportunities for investors, enterprises, and communities alike. As we face global challenges together, Hong Kong stands ready to partner with you in forging these resilient pathways.
In closing, I wish this forum every success. May our discussions spark actions that build a more sustainable world for generations to come. Thank you.
Issued at HKT 10:56
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President Lai meets American Veterans National Commander Paul Shipley
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
On the afternoon of January 27, President Lai Ching-te met with American Veterans (AMVETS) National Commander Paul Shipley. In remarks, the president thanked AMVETS for its longstanding support of Taiwan-US exchanges and veterans affairs. He also stated that the recent enactment of the Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act by the United States administration and Congress provides crucial support for the stable development of Taiwan-US relations. The president expressed hope to further deepen cooperation with the US to jointly enhance care and quality of services for veterans.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
I am delighted to meet and exchange ideas with Commander Shipley today at the Presidential Office. This visit clearly demonstrates the great importance he attaches to Taiwan-US cooperation and veterans affairs. I would also like to congratulate him on being elected national commander at the AMVETS National Convention last August. He is among the youngest national commanders in the organization’s history. His appointment symbolized the passing of the torch to a new generation and displayed AMVETS’ dynamism and drive as it continues to forge onward and stay ahead of the curve.
AMVETS has long played a vital role in US public affairs and social dialogue. Over many years, the organization has not only actively spoken up for veterans’ rights and interests, but also continued to advance Taiwan-US exchanges. In particular, AMVETS invites our Veterans Affairs Council (VAC) to attend its National Convention every year and passes a resolution in support of the Republic of China. AMVETS has also put forward resolutions that aim to consolidate Taiwan-US relations, help Taiwan strengthen its self-defense capabilities, and support our international participation. These concrete actions have further solidified bilateral exchanges in veterans affairs and deepened the Taiwan-US friendship.
Through bilateral exchanges, we have seen that AMVETS takes a systematic approach to providing comprehensive care and services to veterans. Here in Taiwan, the VAC is also committed to improving policies and other measures to ensure that every veteran enjoys stability and dignity in life. I look forward to Commander Shipley’s support for our continued exchange of experiences so as to provide even more and better care for our veterans.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the US administration and Congress for the recent enactment of the Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act. This will provide crucial support for the stable development of Taiwan-US relations. Moving ahead, Taiwan will join the US and like-minded democratic partners in deepening cooperation so as to make even greater contributions to maintaining regional peace and stability and the global order.
In closing, I wish Commander Shipley a pleasant and fruitful visit.
Commander Shipley then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for receiving him, as well as thanking Taiwan’s government for their kindness over the past few days and for continuing to provide much help to AMVETS. He indicated that since 1991, AMVETS national commanders have made many trips to Taiwan to show their support, and they reiterate that support every year at their National Convention.
Commander Shipley stated that it is his organization’s position that the relationship between Taiwan and the US is an excellent thing, and that especially in veterans affairs policies, both in the US and in Taiwan, they encourage this dialogue year over year.
Startups thriving in HK
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem is thriving, attracting a growing number of local and international founders. The city’s business-friendly environment and strong innovation support make it an appealing base for startups aiming to expand in the region.
One of them is a Hong Kong fintech startup that was acquired last year by a loyalty and travel rewards platform from Singapore.
David B Wang, the platform’s Global Head of Loyalty Partnerships and General Manager of Hong Kong, said the city offers favourable conditions for startup development.
Hong Kong is first and foremost a travel hub, he noted, adding that following the COVID-19 pandemic recovery, passenger traffic at Hong Kong International Airport has benefited significantly, and with a new terminal opening, he expects travel demand to continue growing.
Mr Wang also highlighted Hong Kong as a dynamic fintech hub that unites financial services and innovation, enabling companies to test new ideas and products. He also expressed appreciation for the various partners and stakeholders who supported the company’s entry into Hong Kong.
“Thanks to organisations, including Cyberport and Invest Hong Kong, for giving us the resources and showing us that there is an ecosystem here for us to tap into so that we can accelerate our growth and expansion to the market.”
Last year, the number of startups and startup employees in Hong Kong reached new all-time highs. According to Invest Hong Kong, the number of startup firms in the city exceeded 5,200 in 2025, representing an 11% year-on-year increase. These companies employed nearly 20,000 people, reflecting growth of 12% compared with the previous year.
Director-General of Investment Promotion Alpha Lau said Hong Kong’s appeal extends far beyond its borders, with international founders accounting for approximately 33% of the city’s startup community, demonstrating that it is an ideal place for such firms.
“Whether they are local or from around the region using Hong Kong’s wonderful ecosystem for financing, or whether it is to look for support from government funding or develop test cases so that they can grow their dreams.”
In 2025, Invest Hong Kong helped 560 companies to set up or expand their operations in the city. These companies are expected to bring in nearly $70 billion in direct investment and create more than 10,000 new jobs.
In addition, the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, which is partly administered by Invest Hong Kong, received more than 2,850 applications last year, and is expected to bring in investment of more than $85.5 billion to Hong Kong.
Looking ahead, Ms Lau said the department will focus on the Northern Metropolis and supporting Mainland enterprises in “going global” through Hong Kong.
She said as Chinese Mainland industries continue to grow and expand their sales, technologies and investments abroad, Invest Hong Kong will help them to use the city as a platform. This includes managing the functions of their regional headquarters, fundraising, serving as a corporate treasury centre, and managing international operations.
Ms Lau outlined that the department will also identify companies that are interested in using the Northern Metropolis to expand their businesses, such as technology companies looking to establish research and development functions and pursue advanced manufacturing in the area.
Inaugural Global Business Summit Brings Global Leaders Together to Drive Finance-Industry Integration (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The inaugural Global Business Summit (GBS) was successfully held today (January 27) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, providing forward-looking, multi-dimensional insights into the prospects, challenges, and opportunities facing various industries.
The GBS was held on the second day of the annual flagship event, the Asian Financial Forum. It was jointly organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. With over 3 500 global leaders in attendance, the event highlighted Hong Kong’s unique role as a “Super Connector” and “Super Value-Adder,” further solidifying the city’s position as international financial and innovation and technology (I&T) hubs.
Hong Kong Customs hosts International Customs Day 2026 Reception (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Customs hosts International Customs Day 2026 Reception
Mr Chan noted that, under the new circumstances, Hong Kong Customs must continue to evolve. Empowering law enforcement with technologies and strengthening collaboration with Mainland and overseas partners are important. He looked to Hong Kong Customs to make greater contributions to international customs co-operation.Issued at HKT 22:32
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CE meets AFF speakers
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CE meets AFF speakers
Mr Lee met with the President of the AIIB, Ms Zou Jiayi, today. Also attending the meeting was the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui. Mr Lee said that amid the complex and volatile global trade landscape and geopolitical situation, the AIIB has been fostering sustainable economic development and promoting infrastructure connectivity in Asia. As a member of the AIIB, Hong Kong, being the world’s third-largest international financial centre, boasts vibrant capital markets, world-class professional services and diversified financial products, and actively supports the AIIB’s operations in areas such as project financing, bond issuance, and investment and financial management. Hong Kong will provide full support for the AIIB’s establishment of an office in the city, and continue to leverage its unique advantages of connecting the Mainland with the world under the “one country, two systems” principle to deepen co-operation with the AIIB, with a view to further contributing to the sustainable development of infrastructure in Asia.
Accompanied by Mr Hui, Mr Lee met with the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mr Younis Haji Al Khoori. Also attending the meeting was the UAE Ambassador to China, Mr Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi. Mr Lee noted that the total merchandise trade between Hong Kong and the UAE exceeded US$16 billion in 2024, making the UAE Hong Kong’s largest trading partner in the Middle East. He said he is pleased that since his visit to the UAE in 2023, both sides have continued to strengthen co-operation in various key areas including economy and trade, investment, finance and technology. As an important link in global trade connectivity, the UAE is an active participant in the development of the Belt and Road Initiative. As an international financial, shipping and trade centre with world-class infrastructure and professionals, Hong Kong is making every effort to develop into an international innovation and technology hub. It will give full play to its role as a functional platform for the Belt and Road Initiative and seize the tremendous opportunities brought about by the Initiative jointly with the UAE for mutual benefit.
Yesterday, accompanied by the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, Mr Lee met with the Minister of Treasury and Finance of Türkiye, Mr Mehmet Şimşek. Also attending the meeting was the Ambassador of Türkiye to China, Mr Selçuk Ünal. Mr Lee said that Türkiye, situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, is a major economy along the Belt and Road, while Hong Kong, located at a key node of the Belt and Road, plays an important role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”. Mr Lee said that Hong Kong and Türkiye have signed a Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement as well as an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, and the two places will continue to enhance economic and trade co-operation and people-to-people exchanges. He welcomed Turkish enterprises to make use of Hong Kong as a gateway to tap into the Mainland and Asian markets to jointly explore more opportunities. He also encouraged more Turkish youth to pursue further studies and develop their careers in Hong Kong through the Belt and Road Scholarship.
Issued at HKT 19:15
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Global business summit ends
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The inaugural Global Business Summit was successfully held today, providing forward-looking, multi-dimensional insights into the prospects, challenges and opportunities facing various industries.
Held on the second day of the Asian Financial Forum, the summit attracted more than 3,500 global leaders.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan stressed the importance of Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. He noted that empowering industries through finance would foster deeper integration and collaborative development between finance and industry. He further stated that trade, finance and innovation and technology will be the three principal drivers of the city’s economic growth.
Mr Chan pointed out that tailored incentive packages, such as land grants, premium concessions, tax incentives and other facilitation measures, would be prepared to welcome technology enterprises to establish a presence in the Northern Metropolis.
Jointly organised by the Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau, the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) and the Trade Development Council, the summit focused on strategies for financial–industrial integration and the latest market trends.
Discussions included life and health technology, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, new energy, fintech and other fast-growing sectors.
Participants explored how cross-sector collaboration can generate synergies, drive industrial upgrading, and leverage Hong Kong’s strength as a financial and trading centre to support Chinese Mainland enterprises in going global.
This collaboration also aims to attract more international capital to reinforce and foster ecosystem development, strengthening Hong Kong’s role in finance and innovation.
OASES, as a co-organiser of the summit, actively engaged with global leaders from existing and potential strategic enterprises across various sectors, including AI & Data Science, fintech, advanced manufacturing and new energy technology, and life and health technology, enabling them to exchange ideas as guest speakers and provide professional and diverse industry perspectives.
CE meets finance forum speakers
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Chief Executive John Lee met the visiting President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and senior officials of foreign governments over the past two days.
Mr Lee thanked them for serving as speakers at the 19th Asian Financial Forum.
During the meeting with AIIB President Zou Jiayi today, the Chief Executive said that as a member of the AIIB, Hong Kong actively supports the AIIB’s operations in areas such as project financing, bond issuance, and investment and financial management.
He added that Hong Kong will provide full support for the AIIB’s establishment of an office in the city, and continue to leverage its unique advantages of connecting the Mainland with the world under the “one country, two systems” principle to deepen co-operation with the AIIB, with a view to further contributing to the sustainable development of infrastructure in Asia.
In addition, the Chief Executive met Undersecretary of the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Ministry of Finance Younis Haji Al Khoori. Also attending the meeting was UAE Ambassador to China Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi.
Mr Lee highlighted that Hong Kong is making every effort to develop into an international innovation and technology hub. It will give full play to its role as a functional platform for the Belt & Road Initiative and seize the tremendous opportunities brought about by the initiative jointly with the UAE for mutual benefit.
The Chief Executive yesterday met Türkiye’s Minister of Treasury & Finance of Mehmet Şimşek. Also attending the meeting was Ambassador of Türkiye to China Selçuk Ünal.
He welcomed Turkish enterprises to make use of Hong Kong as a gateway to tap into the Mainland and Asian markets to jointly explore more opportunities. He also encouraged more Turkish youth to pursue further studies and develop their careers in Hong Kong through the Belt & Road Scholarship.
China foreign relations talk held
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Civil Service College today held a talk in the series on the country’s foreign affairs, jointly with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Themed “Development of China – United States Relations”, the talk was delivered by Deputy Director General of the Department of North American & Oceanian Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tang Zhiwen.
Addressing the talk, Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said that Hong Kong has the distinctive advantages of enjoying the nation’s strong support and being closely connected to the world, along with a multicultural and international background. In the National 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong can play a bridging role by promoting economic and cultural exchanges between the country and the rest of the world, thereby opening up new development opportunities.
Mrs Yeung noted that Hong Kong SAR civil servants should take a more active role by developing a deep understanding of national strategies, accurately grasping changes in the international landscape, and fully leveraging their professional expertise and communication capabilities to contribute to fostering rational dialogue and pragmatic co-operation between China and the US.
About 170 senior officials and civil servants in the directorate and senior ranks attended the talk at the Central Government Offices today.