Hong Kong to focus on new development areas

Chief Executive John Lee outlined key development priorities.

Chief Executive John Lee outlined key development priorities for Hong Kong, emphasising new growth areas during a speech marking the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Lee highlighted the city's role in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, which aims to create a world-class economic zone. Over the past five years, Hong Kong has pushed high-level development within the area, with a focus on regulatory and framework alignment. The Greater Bay Area is positioned as a hub for high-quality growth, offering new opportunities for the region.

Lee also stressed Hong Kong’s progress as an international aviation hub with the completion of the Three-Runway System, and its leading position in innovation and technology. Hong Kong ranked second globally in the emerging startup ecosystems category.

He emphasised further integration into China's broader development strategies, including the Belt & Road Initiative and the 14th Five-Year Plan, to strengthen Hong Kong’s international competitiveness.

Lee said the city must adapt to global changes, calling for continuous reforms to address economic transformation challenges and seize opportunities for future growth.