The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government welcomes the announcement made by the Securities and Futures Commission today (August 20) about the approval for Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) to launch the MSCI China A-share index futures contract in Hong Kong, and expresses gratitude to the Central Government for its support during the process.
 
     The Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, said, "With the support of the Central Government, a number of mutual capital market access schemes were successfully launched over the past years. Launching the A-shares index futures contract in Hong Kong will expand the product scope offering in our capital markets, strengthen Hong Kong's offshore Renminbi businesses and deepen the collaboration between the two capital markets, thereby contributing to the further development of the Mainland's capital market towards internationalisation. This demonstrates that Hong Kong can fully leverage our advantages and integrate into the national development. I would like to express deep appreciation to the Central Government for supporting Hong Kong to reinforce its status as an international financial centre, and will continue to implement the targets laid down in the National 14th Five-Year Plan."
 
     The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, "The MSCI China A-share index futures contract to be launched by HKEX would be an offshore A-share index futures product formally approved by the Mainland Authorities. It could serve as a useful risk management tool for offshore investors participating in the A-share market, while broadening the offering of financial products in Hong Kong at the same time. Launching the product will further reinforce Hong Kong's function as a global offshore Renminbi business hub, an international asset management centre and a risk management centre as outlined in the National 14th Five-Year Plan, and enhance Hong Kong's competitiveness as an international financial centre. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Central Government for the support, and regulators of the two places for their efforts in taking forward and implementing the initiative."

Ends/Friday, August 20, 2021
Issued at HKT 18:03

NNNN