Yau: Deeper GBA Cooperation to Boost Integrated Development
Bastillepost · 2 SOURCESabout 5 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Edward Yau Tang-kwong delivered a speech at the 2026 International Bay Area Economic Forum in Guangzhou on Saturday, outlining how deeper cooperation among Hong Kong, Guangdong and Macau can accelerate integrated development in the Greater Bay Area. Yau highlighted each region's unique strengths, noting that Hong Kong offers highly internationalized business environment and extensive global trade networks, Guangdong brings strong manufacturing foundations and innovative technology industries, while Macau provides distinctive advantages in Lusophone trade and cultural exchanges .
Key Points
- Hong Kong serves as a gateway connecting the mainland with the world, holding the position as the largest global offshore renminbi business center
- Hong Kong was ranked the world's freest economy again last month, with record numbers of overseas and mainland companies based in the city
- The Northern Metropolis will drive innovation and emerging industries while building closer ties with Shenzhen and other Greater Bay Area cities
- A specialized team supporting mainland enterprises going global has helped 300 such companies establish or expand operations in Hong Kong
- The government will collaborate with the Ministry of Commerce to pursue comprehensive CEPA upgrades and expand market access
Why It Matters
The forum's emphasis on complementary regional strengths underscores how Hong Kong's international connectivity can amplify the Greater Bay Area's global competitiveness. By positioning itself as both a bridge and a platform for mainland enterprises, Hong Kong strengthens its irreplaceable role in the national development strategy while creating new opportunities for local professionals and businesses .
The forum's emphasis on complementary regional strengths underscores how Hong Kong's international connectivity can amplify the Greater Bay Area's global competitiveness. By positioning itself as both a bridge and a platform for mainland enterprises, Hong Kong strengthens its irreplaceable role in the national development strategy while creating new opportunities for local professionals and businesses .