Hong Kong cements role as global superconnector

14th July 2025 – (Hong Kong) Amidst rising protectionism and fragmented supply chains, Hong Kong stands as a symbol of connectivity. By 2025, it has strengthened its role as a "superconnector" and "super value-adder" through strategic planning and the "one country, two systems" framework.

Hong Kong is ranked among the top three international financial centers, as confirmed by the 2025 World Competitiveness Yearbook. In the first five months of 2025, securities trading by South Korean institutions in Hong Kong reached HK$1.5 trillion, 2.8 times 2024 volumes, indicating its appeal amidst geopolitical tensions.

Hong Kong's financial infrastructure has expanded to attract high-growth mainland companies in AI, semiconductors, and biotech. In the first half of 2025, it led globally in IPO fundraising, raising HK$107 billion across 42 listings, offering world-class regulatory standards, free capital movement, and a trusted common law system.

Hong Kong's role in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has evolved to become an essential orchestrator. A high-level delegation to Kuwait resulted in 24 agreements, positioning Hong Kong as a key player for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) engagement.

Hong Kong has signed Comprehensive Double Taxation Agreements with five GCC states and Investment Promotion Protection Agreements with three, including Kuwait. A potential Hong Kong-GCC free trade agreement is increasingly feasible.

Hong Kong thrives at the intersection of technology and manufacturing within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Its professional services integrate with GBA's manufacturing clusters, reducing supply chain costs and accelerating market access.

Fintech leadership, with strong regulatory frameworks, positions Hong Kong as Asia’s secure digital asset gateway. Events like Consensus Hong Kong 2025 and Fintech Week attract global participants, while initiatives like a HK$1 billion co-investment fund target GBA-linked tech ventures.

Hong Kong engages in cultural diplomacy, with the West Kowloon Cultural District serving as a global exchange hub. During a Kuwait visit, Hong Kong musicians performed traditional Cantonese pieces, fostering mutual understanding.

Hong Kong's success relies on the "One Country, Two Systems" framework, treaty networks, and proactive government initiatives. The city facilitates economic partnerships, exemplified by companies like OneDegree and Lingfeng Capital expanding into the GCC.

With 9,960 overseas companies and 4,694 startups, Hong Kong offers unparalleled scaling platforms. As ASEAN’s second-largest trading partner and with over 100 MOUs signed with Middle Eastern entities, the infrastructure for multilateral gain is robust.