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Speech by FS at Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Renovated Office Opening Ceremony (English only) (with photos)
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     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) Renovated Office Opening Ceremony today (April 22):

Agnes (Chairman of the HKGCC, Ms Agnes Chan), Peter (Deputy Chairman of the HKGCC, Dr Peter Lam), 朱文部長 (Director General of the Coordination Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government (LOCPG) in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr Zhu Wen), 周強副部長 (Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department and Head of the Commercial Office of the LOCPG in the HKSAR, Mr Zhou Qiang), consuls-general, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good morning. It is my great pleasure to join you all in celebrating the opening of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce's newly refurbished office.

     The Chamber has occupied this premises for over four decades, during which time it has borne witness to Hong Kong's remarkable transformation and development. It also stands as a testament to the dedication and contributions of generations of business leaders who have chosen to build and grow their businesses here in Hong Kong.

     While these past 40 years represent only about a quarter of the Chamber's distinguished history of 165 years, it has weathered multiple challenges and transformation in Hong Kong. During this period, we have also experienced firsthand the rapid evolution of technology - its challenges, its vast potential, and the powerful momentum it has unleashed.

     At every pivotal stage of economic and technological change, those in the business community who remain optimistic, though at times with caution, and move forward with agility and confidence, often find themselves presented with golden opportunities. History shows that those who have faith in Hong Kong over the long term are more likely to deliver strong results. 

     Members of the Chamber have each played an active role in Hong Kong's development through their respective enterprises. You are the solid foundation for Hong Kong's continued growth.

     For Hong Kong's success, the most critical factor is talent. I am pleased to note that the Chamber's membership increasingly includes a new generation of business leaders as well as representatives from technology companies. This is a highly encouraging development for an organisation with such a rich heritage. 

     Whether you are from traditional industries or the technology sector, or whether you are seasoned executives or emerging leaders, we all face both the challenges and opportunities brought about by geopolitics, green transition and technological transformation. More exchanges, dialogue and collaboration will enable deeper understanding of the needs, challenges and opportunities across different industries.

     With this thoughtful renovation, this premises now offers a more comfortable and functional space, providing members with enhanced facilities for meetings and engagement, and better supporting the Chamber's ongoing initiatives.

     Looking ahead, I am confident that this revitalised space represents more than just a physical upgrade. It symbolises the Chamber's readiness to keep pace with the times and embrace change. In this new era, filled with both opportunities and challenges, let us continue to work together to contribute to Hong Kong's continued prosperity and stability.

     I wish the Chamber every success in its future endeavors, and all members continued business success. Thank you very much. 
 
Ends/Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Issued at HKT 12:25
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Photo

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, speaks at the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Renovated Office Opening Ceremony today (April 22).
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) Renovated Office Opening Ceremony today (April 22). Photo shows Mr Chan (front row, centre); the Chairman of HKGCC, Ms Agnes Chan (front row, fourth right); the Deputy Chairman of HKGCC, Dr Peter Lam (front row, third left); the Director General of the Coordination Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government (LOCPG) in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr Zhu Wen (front row, fourth left); the Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department and Head of the Commercial Office of the LOCPG in the HKSAR, Mr Zhou Qiang (front row, third right), and other guests at the ceremony.
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) Renovated Office Opening Ceremony today (April 22). Photo shows Mr Chan (right), the Chairman of HKGCC, Ms Agnes Chan (centre), and the Deputy Chairman of HKGCC, Dr Peter Lam (left), at the ceremony.
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) Renovated Office Opening Ceremony today (April 22). Photo shows Mr Chan (centre); the Chairman of HKGCC, Ms Agnes Chan (fourth right); the Deputy Chairman of HKGCC, Dr Peter Lam (third left); the Director General of the Coordination Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government (LOCPG) in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr Zhu Wen (fourth right); the Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department and Head of the Commercial Office of the LOCPG in the HKSAR, Mr Zhou Qiang (third right), and other guests officiates at the roast pig-cutting ceremony.