The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Tokyo (Tokyo ETO) held a reception in Seoul, Korea, today (May 11) to update some 300 guests from various sectors including the Korean government, political and business sectors, academia, the media and community groups on the latest developments of Hong Kong, and to share with them the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's initiatives to embrace the enormous opportunities ahead.

     In her welcome remarks, the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Miss Winsome Au, briefed the guests on the initiatives announced in the Chief Executive's 2022 Policy Address and the Financial Secretary's 2023-24 Budget, including various measures to promote economic growth, attract enterprises and talent, and foster a closer collaboration among Hong Kong and other cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

     She highlighted that a Dedicated Team for Attracting Businesses and Talents has been set up under the Tokyo ETO to proactively reach out to target enterprises and talent and encourage them to pursue expansion and growth in Hong Kong. The team would also liaise with top universities in Japan and Korea and promote the various talent admission schemes so as to broaden Hong Kong's talent pool.

     She encouraged people from Korea to visit Hong Kong, and said that she looks forward to the flourishing business and economic ties between Hong Kong and Korea. 

     A global 'Hello Hong Kong' Campaign was launched to extend our warmest welcome to tourists, business travellers and investors from all over the world to visit Hong Kong. In the Budget announced in February, the Financial Secretary pledged over HK$250 million for major tourism events such as the world-famous Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour, the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, the Hong Kong Cyclothon, Hong Kong Sevens, and Art Basel in Hong Kong. The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park Hong Kong will hold themed fairs, carnivals or other activities throughout the year. In addition, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council will hold more than 10 major conferences and exhibitions in the coming months," she said.

     At the reception, the Chief Operating Officer of the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Mrs Vivian Cheung, delivered a presentation on the latest development of Hong Kong International Airport, and promoted the "World of Winners" Tickets Giveaway Campaign sponsored by the AAHK with around 500 000 free air tickets being given away to travellers in major passenger markets, including Korea, in support of the 'Hello Hong Kong' Campaign.

Ends/Thursday, May 11, 2023
Issued at HKT 22:45

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