********************************************************
Japanese companies from Yamanashi Prefecture have been encouraged to extend their reach to Mainland China, Asia and beyond through the gateway of Hong Kong.
Speaking at a business seminar attended by some 100 people in Kofu city of Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, today (May 21), the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Ms Sally Wong, highlighted Hong Kong's competitive edge, including its low and simple tax regime, free market principles, strategic location and superb connectivity with the world.
"Hong Kong is a very open and cosmopolitan city which very much welcomes foreign investments, including those from Japan," she said, noting that some 7 450 overseas companies have set up headquarters or offices in the city. Of these, nearly 1 400 were set up by Japanese companies, which became the largest group of overseas companies in Hong Kong in 2013.
She also highlighted the advantages brought about by the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) to businesses. "Foreign firms incorporated in Hong Kong, or partnering with a Hong Kong firm, can enjoy the same benefits of CEPA as local companies do," she said.
"Doing business in Hong Kong, and through Hong Kong to Mainland China, Southeast Asia and the global market, would give businesses the protection of Hong Kong laws, which are based on the common law system," she said.
"You can enjoy all the freedoms and rights, the pluralism and cosmopolitan outlook and our unique and fascinating blend of Eastern and Western cultures, and you can feel the vibrancy of the city as you go about doing business or staying in Hong Kong," she added.
Ms Wong also encouraged Japanese people to visit Hong Kong for pleasure as well as for business. "The good thing about visiting or staying in Hong Kong is that no matter what time of the year it is, there are always interesting sights and events waiting for you, not to mention the delicious food and delightful shopping," she said.
Other speakers at the seminar were the Director, Japan, of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Shigemi Furuta; the President of San-Ei Seiko Co Ltd, Mr Shoji Yamamoto; and the Chairman of the Yamanashi Jewelry Association, Mr Makoto Kondo.
The seminar held today was organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government with the aim of promoting Hong Kong's various opportunities and advantages for Japanese businesses.
Ends/Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:28
NNNN
