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Companies from Niigata have been encouraged to leverage on Hong Kong's strategic location as well as its advantages and business opportunities to extend their reach in Mainland China, Asia and the world.
Speaking at a business seminar attended by some 100 people in Niigata city, Japan, today (June 10), the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Ms Sally Wong, offered her congratulations on the establishment of the new Niigata Chapter of the Japan Hong Kong Society in March this year, noting that it is an important step to develop a closer relationship between Hong Kong and Niigata.
Outlining the reasons for choosing Hong Kong as a partner for growth and development in the global market, Ms Wong said, "Hong Kong has always been a staunch supporter and practitioner of free trade and free markets, welcoming investments from all over the world. We have a very low and simple tax system, a free flow of capital and no foreign exchange controls.
"We have a clean, transparent and efficient government, zero tolerance of corruption and a level playing field for all. We do not impose any nationality restrictions on corporate ownership, and foreigners are free to invest in business."
She added, "In terms of location, Hong Kong is strategically located right on the doorstep of China and is the logistics hub of Asia."
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.
"This year marks the 16th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), and Hong Kong has developed further from its traditional strengths and characteristics," Ms Wong said.
Hong Kong has a full range of high-quality services, such as legal and accounting services. The city's skilled and talented personnel, who understand both international and Mainland practices, can help Japanese businessmen develop their businesses there.
"Doing business in Hong Kong, and through Hong Kong to Mainland China, Asia and the global markets, means that you are protected by the laws of Hong Kong, which are based on the common law system.
"Japan is the sixth major source of inward direct investment into Hong Kong. We attach great importance to Japanese companies establishing a presence or expanding their business in Hong Kong," she said.
Ms Wong noted that Hong Kong and Japan have enjoyed a mature and stable relationship for many years. The business and cultural ties between the two places are strong.
"Hong Kong remains a very safe, hospitable and welcoming place for visitors and businessmen from Japan," she added.
Other speakers at the seminar were the Director, Tokyo, of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Joyce Cheung; the Manager - West Japan of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Mr Yoshihiro Ito; the Principal Consultant of Invest Hong Kong in Tokyo, Mr Yukio Sasaki; and the President of Niigata Nosho Co Ltd, Mr Kimihiro Ito.
After the seminar, Ms Wong called on the Governor of the Niigata Prefectural Government, Mr Hirohiko Izumida, to discuss how to establish closer ties between Hong Kong and Niigata.
The seminar held today was organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo) of the HKSAR Government with the aim of promoting Hong Kong's various opportunities and advantages for Japanese businesses.
Ends/Monday, June 10, 2013
Issued at HKT 18:12
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