ASEAN backs Hong Kong’s RCEP bid, consensus pending
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn said in Hong Kong on September 9 that ASEAN supports Hong Kong joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, while stressing that the accession process still requires consensus among all RCEP members. He said Hong Kong’s participation would benefit Hong Kong, ASEAN and all members of the trade pact, and added that discussions and consultations are continuing.
Key Points
- Kao Kim Hourn was in Hong Kong for the two-day Belt and Road Summit, which opened at the Convention and Exhibition Centre on September 9
- He said RCEP accession decisions are made by consensus, so approval for Hong Kong still depends on all member economies completing the required process.
- Kao said Hong Kong is currently ASEAN’s fourth-largest source of foreign direct investment, underscoring the depth of existing economic ties
- He described Hong Kong and ASEAN as attractive safe havens for international capital amid geopolitical tensions, citing peace, stability and growth potential
- Beyond trade and tourism, ASEAN and Hong Kong are exploring broader cooperation, including food security, digital economy and green economy initiatives.
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong, the message is supportive but not yet definitive: ASEAN is publicly backing the city’s RCEP application, while making clear that timing depends on unanimous agreement among members. Kao’s remarks also position Hong Kong as a gateway linking ASEAN, mainland China and global markets at a time when policymakers are trying to attract more overseas capital