John Lee Vows Full CEPA Upgrade to Boost Professional Services Integration
Bastillepost · 3 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu announced on Tuesday that the HKSAR Government will push for a comprehensive upgrade of the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) to deepen cooperation with the mainland in service trade and professional sectors. Delivering a video address at the Hong Kong Association of Professional and Senior Executives anniversary dinner, Lee emphasized that Hong Kong's professional talent possesses international perspectives and extensive dual-market experience, making the city a crucial partner for mainland enterprises seeking global expansion. The government will also reinforce Hong Kong's role as a connector between the mainland and overseas markets while actively expanding economic networks along the Belt and Road.
Key Points
- The HKSAR Government will continue to promote a full upgrade of CEPA under national support, aiming to deepen Hong Kong-mainland cooperation in service trade and professional fields
- Hong Kong's professional services talent combines international vision with rich dual-market experience, serving as a key partner for mainland enterprises "going global"
- The government will facilitate alignment of rules and mechanisms to enable two-way flow of talent, capital, and services between Hong Kong and the mainland
- Hong Kong will strengthen its position as an internal-external connectivity hub, encouraging mainland enterprises to leverage the city's international platform for overseas expansion
- The city will continue expanding overseas economic networks and deepen cooperation with Belt and Road countries, helping local professionals tap into new markets
Why It Matters
The push for CEPA upgrades comes at a critical time as Hong Kong seeks new economic drivers amid regional competition. By positioning professional services as a bridge between mainland enterprises and international markets, the government aims to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem where Hong Kong gains development momentum while helping mainland companies expand globally through the city's established international platform .
The push for CEPA upgrades comes at a critical time as Hong Kong seeks new economic drivers amid regional competition. By positioning professional services as a bridge between mainland enterprises and international markets, the government aims to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem where Hong Kong gains development momentum while helping mainland companies expand globally through the city's established international platform .