Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah condemned the U.S. for passing an act targeting three Hong Kong economic and trade offices there and called on the American side not to make decisions that harm both parties.

Speaking on a Saturday radio program, Yau said the accusations made by the U.S. didn’t match with the facts and stressed that all 14 economic and trade offices across the globe have constantly been working and communicating with local governments and organizations.

The offices have never breached any regulations and the false accusations are unacceptable, Yau noted.

Yau also recalled that the U.S. has made over US$280 billion in surplus when trading with the SAR over the past decade, and there are currently some 1,200 American businesses in the city.

If things further go south, both governments will lose an official communication channel, Yau noted. He pointed out that although other civil and commercial organizations can function, the situation will not be ideal.

Yau then called on the U.S. to reconsider and make wise decisions so that the interest of both sides won’t be harmed.

When asked about the recent surge in Hongkongers traveling up north, Yau said it is a natural phenomenon. He also said the key question is how to stimulate the spending of some 7 million residents who stay.

He added that the government has rolled out a number of festivities, including the Night Vibes Hong Kong campaign and the Wine and Dine Festival that have been effective in boosting local spending.

Yau continued that the government will continue to run these campaigns in the future and called on all sectors of society to offer their ideas.

File photo.

Commerce chief condemns US act targeting trade offices, says stimulating local spending a key issue