Moreover, Hong Kong's extensive international transportation network and
logistic services could contribute to the growth of import and export trade in
the region.
In western provinces and regions, where the pace of reform and opening up as
well as economic readjustment is to be hastened, capital injection into
infrastructure projects and specific industries that characterize the region
would be something Hong Kong could do to help out. These industries include
traditional Chinese medicine, mining of minerals and tourism.
Speaking to ASEAN trade officials at the forum, Tsang underlined Hong Kong's
potential role in helping forge the establishment of the free trade zone between
the Chinese mainland and member countries of the bloc.
With its professional expertise and experience in trading with ASEAN
countries, Hong Kong could become a base for the ASEAN countries to make inroads
into the mainland market and vice versa.
Furthermore, Hong Kong's role as an aviation and logistic hub could bolster
the flow of people and goods between the two regions. With joint efforts among
the PPRD members, more tourists, for instance, could be lured to the PPRD region
from Southeast Asia, Tsang said.
However, the CE sounded a note of warning as he said at a cocktail reception
that the implementation of the measures in the 11th plan, such as further reform
of the yuan, would have profound impact on the long-term development of the SAR.
That is why, he explained, he would call an economic summit meeting in
September to forge a consensus as to what strategy Hong Kong should adopt in
order to meet such challenges.
Besides attending the forum, Tsang also visited the exhibition associated
with the forum with Guangdong Governor Huang Huahua.
The CE admired the Hong Kong booth for having the best design in the
exhibition.
The Hong Kong booth, built with transparent materials like glass and
illuminated by special lighting that emitted an aura of modernity, gave a
presentation on leading industries and innovation and
technology.
(For more biz stories, please visit Industry Updates)
