HK 'fully prepared' to join RCEP, says John Lee

Hong Kong is fully prepared to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as "a champion of free and multilateral trade," said Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu at the HKGCC International Business Summit today (Nov 28).

In his speech, Lee emphasized the significant potential of the Greater Bay Area and that Hong Kong is the place with prowess in professional services for a world of investors to grasp the opportunities of the mainland market.

Lee also highlighted that Hong Kong has long been a "super connector" and "super value-adder" under one country, two systems, creating opportunities in both traditional and emerging markets, making Hong Kong a natural bridge between ASEAN and Middle East businesses and mainland markets. 

"I believe that the next natural step in our growing ties with ASEAN is for Hong Kong to become a member of RCEP," Lee added.

He said Hong Kong will boost the ties in trade and benefit companies and investors throughout the nations of ASEAN and RCEP.

In addition, Lee mentioned that the government recently signed an amendment to the Agreement on Trade in Services under CEPA, allowing businesses from around the world to use Hong Kong as their base for exploring the mainland market.

Lee also anticipates that trade figures will grow in the coming years with the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement and Investment Agreement with ASEAN.