John Lee touts HK's business appeal at international companies reception

Chief Executive John Lee welcomed representatives from international and mainland businesses at a reception held Tuesday at the Central Government Offices, promoting the city as an ideal base for regional and global expansion. 

During the event, Lee engaged with corporate leaders to discuss their plans for exploring opportunities in Hong Kong.

The chief executive on social media today highlighted Hong Kong's economic strengths, noting its consistent recognition as the world's freest economy. 

He pointed to the city's improved global competitiveness ranking, having risen two positions to secure third place in the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook. Hong Kong particularly excelled in tax policy and business legislation categories, ranking first in both areas.

Lee emphasized Hong Kong's unique position under the one country, two systems framework, describing it as the only global city that combines China's advantages with international connectivity. He underscored the compatibility of Hong Kong's common law system with major financial centers worldwide and reaffirmed the judiciary's independent operation.

Lee shared that Hong Kong hosted record numbers of both international and mainland companies as well as startups last year, with approximately 9,900 established businesses and 4,700startups operating in the city. 

Looking ahead, Lee pledged to further enhance the business environment through new initiatives designed to attract enterprises from across the world.