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Hong Kong: gateway to China, the rest of Asia and the world for Japanese companies (with photos)
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     Japanese companies are encouraged to explore how they can further capitalise on the unique advantages of Hong Kong as the gateway to China, the rest of Asia and the world.

     The remarks were made by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Mrs Laura Aron, at the Asia Forum Luncheon Seminar in Okinawa, Japan, today (May 31).

     The seminar was attended by more than 120 business representatives, with most of them from companies in Japan.

     "Hong Kong's investment regime is highly liberal. Capital can move in and out of Hong Kong freely, and our society is open, cosmopolitan and free," Mrs Aron said.

     As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the "One Country, Two Systems" arrangement and maintains a separate system in its economy, government administration, laws, the judiciary, currency, customs territory and immigration controls.

     "We are committed to free trade and free markets, the rule of law and a level playing field for all. Overseas companies and entities are welcome to set up and invest in business.

     "Our efforts have been recognised by the US-based Heritage Foundation, which has rated Hong Kong the freest economy in the world for 19 years in a row. Bloomberg has also named Hong Kong as the best place for doing business," she said.

     Mrs Aron noted that Hong Kong and Japan have enjoyed a mature and stable relationship for many years. Japan is Hong Kong's third largest trading partner, and Hong Kong has been Japan's largest food export market for six years in a row.

     "Hong Kong continues to be a very safe, hospitable and welcoming place for visitors and investments from Japan and other countries.

     "The friendship and business ties between Hong Kong and Japan remain strong. At present, more than 1 200 Japanese companies are setting up business in or via Hong Kong. We continue to welcome more overseas companies to make use of Hong Kong in expanding into the global markets," she said.

     Noting that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Tokyo, Mrs Aron expressed gratitude to the strong support that many people and organisations in Japan have rendered to Hong Kong over the years.

     The Asia Forum is an annual regional event of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, which allows members of Hong Kong business associations to get together to network, share experiences and build up business connections. The Japan Hong Kong Society is hosting the Asia Forum, which is being held in Japan for the first time.

Ends/Friday, May 31, 2013
Issued at HKT 18:33

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