The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government welcomed an announcement by the Securities & Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC) today that Mainland government bond futures will be launched in the city.

The SFC made the move in response to an announcement by the central authorities.

Hailing the launch, Chief Executive John Lee highlighted that the National 15th Five-Year Plan indicates clear support for Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial centre.

Since the launch of Bond Connect in 2017, Mr Lee noted, the scale of Chinese bond assets held by overseas investors has steadily increased, rising from around RMB0.8 trillion in June 2017 to over RMB3 trillion in April 2026.

"With growing demand for renminbi-denominated products and related hedging instruments, the introduction of Mainland government bond futures in Hong Kong marks an important development milestone, providing an effective offshore risk management tool for investors.

"It enables investors to manage their interest rate exposures more efficiently and conveniently, further attracts international investors to participate in the Mainland bond market and to hold renminbi treasury bonds on a long-term basis, and fosters the healthy development of the treasury bond market, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong's position as a bond centre.

"I sincerely thank the Central People's Government and relevant Mainland regulators for their support all along."

Financial Secretary Paul Chan said the introduction of Mainland government bond futures marks a pivotal step in enhancing Hong Kong’s renminbi product ecosystem and deepening mutual market access.

“It is conducive to driving the development of structured products, as well as asset management and risk management services in Hong Kong, further consolidating Hong Kong’s status as the world's leading offshore renminbi hub and an international risk management centre.”

According to the announcement, a five-year Mainland government bond futures contract will be launched in Hong Kong. Mr Chan said the Hong Kong SAR Government and financial regulators will implement necessary arrangements expeditiously.