CE attends Boao forum

March 24, 2026

Steadfast commitment:

Chief Executive John Lee speaks at a forum of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026.

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Chief Executive John Lee:

If the events of the first three months of 2026 are any lesson to learn, it is that no economy can thrive in isolation. 

Stability requires a regional framework that is open and inclusive for everyone. At this important platform for dialogue, I would like to share with you the three directions Hong Kong is pursuing to promote growth opportunities for all. 

First, we will continue to expand our global trade network. We have recently concluded investment agreement negotiations with Qatar, Bangladesh and Peru. And we are exploring the signing of new investment agreements with Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

Forging more free trade agreements is also a priority. We are committed to joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the world's largest free-trade agreement. We maintain close communication with the partnership's member countries, and will continue to rally their support for Hong Kong's early accession.

We look forward to contributing to the partnership, to working with member economies in promoting regional economic integration.

Second, we will leverage our network to connect investors with opportunities. Hong Kong has 16 offices and liaison units in the Mainland, and 15 overseas economic & trade offices. Together with the offices of Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, we have a presence in 68 cities and cover 129 countries.

Third, we will promote regional economic development and prosperity. This year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings will be held in cities across the country. We are honoured that the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting will be held in Hong Kong this October.

Chief Executive John Lee arrived in Hainan today to attend the Global Free Trade Ports Development Forum at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2026.

Addressing the forum, Mr Lee noted that this year is the opening year of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, which fully supports the high-quality development of the Hainan Free Trade Port. He congratulated the port on the smooth implementation of island-wide special customs operations and the swift rollout of a number of business-friendly policies, representing an important showcase in the country's efforts to promote free trade and advance high-standard opening up.

He expressed confidence that Hong Kong, as a global trading hub, will continue to complement the port and pursue mutual benefits, working together to promote free trade.

Mr Lee highlighted that Hong Kong is ranked number one in the world in economic freedom, adding that it remains steadfastly committed to free trade and multilateralism. He said the city will continue to expand its global trade network, leverage its network to connect investors with opportunities, and further promote regional economic development and prosperity.

In addition, the Chief Executive said that China is the host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) this year, with the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting to be held in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for the first time in October.

He emphasised that the Hong Kong SAR Government will spare no effort to ensure the full success of the meeting and leverage Hong Kong's unique advantages under the "one country, two systems" principle in connecting the Mainland and the world to deepen international exchanges and co-operation.

In the evening, Mr Lee attended the Boao Forum for Asia 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner to exchange views with key guests from various countries.