The Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom of the World 2026 Annual Report has once again ranked Hong Kong as the world's freest economy. Among the five areas of assessment in the report, the city maintained its top position in "Freedom to trade internationally" and secured second place in "Regulation".

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government noted that the report reaffirmed Hong Kong's strengths as a free-market economy, alongside its open, efficient and fair business environment.

Amid growing economic uncertainties and rising trade protectionism, Hong Kong remains firmly committed to maintaining its free port status, zero-tariff policy and simple, low tax regime. These factors provide a secure, stable, fair, predictable and internationalised business and investment environment for entrepreneurs and investors worldwide.

The Hong Kong SAR Government added that as the country remains committed to high-standard, two-way opening up and continues to achieve breakthroughs in technological innovation, it serves as a major stabilising force and driving engine for global economic growth. Under the “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong enjoys the strong support of the motherland while maintaining close connections with the rest of the world.

While offering convenient access to both the Mainland and international markets, Hong Kong continues to practise common law in both Chinese and English. It also provides financial, shipping, trading and professional services that align seamlessly with international best standards, supported by an efficient government structure and a clean, professional civil service.

The Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that these unique strengths enable Hong Kong to fully leverage its roles as a super connector and super value-adder, making it the premier gateway for Mainland enterprises to enter international markets and vice versa.

So far this year, Hong Kong has continued to scale new heights across various international competitiveness rankings spanning finance, innovation and technology, education and talent. This reflects wide recognition by the international community of Hong Kong's core strengths and the Hong Kong SAR Government's efforts to promote high-quality social and economic development.

Looking ahead, with the staunch support of the country, the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to work alongside all sectors of the community to further enhance Hong Kong's roles as "four centres and one hub". It will accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis to inject stronger impetus into social and economic growth, open up broader development prospects for local enterprises and the public while providing greater opportunities for enterprises, investors and talent worldwide.