Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau began a visit to Beijing today by calling on the Ministry of Commerce.

Mr Yau briefed a number of departments of the ministry on Hong Kong’s latest efforts in promoting trade and attracting business and investment.

He said that even in the face of protectionism and unilateralism, in particular the unreasonable coercion arising from US tariffs, Hong Kong will continue to capitalise on its unparalleled advantages under “one country, two systems” to consolidate and enhance its status as an international trade centre, performing its dual role of helping Mainland enterprises to go global while attracting overseas investment.

He said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will step up its efforts to attract enterprises and investment, and to explore more new markets, while at the same time better integrating into the overall national development, seizing opportunities arising from the country’s domestic circulation and giving full play to Hong Kong’s roles as a super connector and super value-adder to address changes in the global economic and trade landscape.

Additionally, Mr Yau met representatives from Hong Kong enterprises in Beijing to hear about their experiences and exchange views on the challenges faced by enterprises in the current international environment.

Mr Yau will proceed to Qatar tomorrow to join a Hong Kong delegation there led by Chief Executive John Lee. During Mr Yau’s absence, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Bernard Chan will be Acting Secretary.