Hong Kong unveils first Five-Year Plan through 2030

It sets 22 major indicators across finance, I&T, and Northern Metropolis development. 

Hong Kong unveiled its first Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development on 16 September, focusing on finance, trade, aviation, maritime services, innovation and the Northern Metropolis through 2030.

The plan, announced by Chief Executive John Lee ahead of his 2026 Policy Address, includes 22 major indicators alongside 83 work indicators across individual chapters. 

"It shall shed light on Hong Kong's directions of development, optimise resource allocation, enhance social expectation certainty," Lee said.

One key area is the development of a commodity trading ecosystem alongside measures to strengthen Hong Kong’s offshore renminbi business, international asset and wealth management sector, and risk management capabilities. 

For the maritime sector, the government said it will seek to stabilise container throughput whilst shifting the port towards higher-value activities.

Hong Kong will also expand its aviation network through new routes and greater integration with the national aviation network. 

In trade, the city will maintain zero customs tariffs whilst expanding its international economic and trade network. 

Measures include developing a high-value-added supply chain services centre, upgrading the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement, and supporting digital trade and cross-border e-commerce.

The government will organise its innovation and technology strategy around three major I&T parks and five research and development institutions.

The three development clusters comprise the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone and San Tin Technopole, Hong Kong Science Park, and Cyberport.

Meanwhile, the government plans to develop a clinical trial infrastructure and a digital portal, alongside enhancing regulatory reforms for drugs and medical devices.

The Northern Metropolis will include university towns in San Tin, Hung Shui Kiu, and Ta Kwu Ling, each with different industry priorities.

The government will also deepen Greater Bay Area integration through cross-boundary railway projects and greater alignment of rules and professional qualifications.

The plan was released during the opening year of China's 15th Five-Year Plan.