Closer ties between HK and Sichuan thanks to 'panda economy'

Hong Kong and Sichuan have grown closer in tourism, culinary consumption and cultural entertainment industries, driven by the booming “panda economy” and mainland blockbuster Ne Zha 2, said Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Alpha Lau Hai-suen.

Lau made the remarks during her first official visit to Sichuan from March 10 to 12. The trip aimed to promote Hong Kong’s business opportunities to local government officials, companies, and media.

During her visit,  Lau met with Liang Yong, Deputy Director General of the Sichuan Provincial Department of Commerce, to discuss multinational supply chain management and other collaborative opportunities. 

At a seminar in Chengdu on Tuesday, Lau highlighted Hong Kong’s role as a bridge connecting Sichuan to global markets.

“Sichuan and Hong Kong complement each other in industrial resources. Hong Kong is not only the largest source of foreign investment in Sichuan Province but also a primary destination for Sichuan enterprises' outbound investments,” Lau said.

“As Sichuan is developing into an innovation-driven economy, it could capitalise on Hong Kong's emphasis on the innovation and technology sector and the vigorous advancement of new quality productive forces,” she added.

The seminar, organized by InvestHK, the Sichuan Provincial Department of Commerce, and the Commercial Office of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong, attracted around 150 representatives from local enterprises, institutions, and media.

Liang, at the same event, expressed the province’s commitment to strengthening ties with Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.

By leveraging Hong Kong's role as a 'super-connector,' we aim to help enterprises expand overseas and establish a global presence," he said.

Lau’s visit also included meetings with local high-tech enterprises in sectors such as green energy, advanced manufacturing, and low-altitude economy to explore their plans for establishing or expanding operations in Hong Kong.

(Ayra Wang)