Hong Kong is an international financial center as well as a trade and shipping center. Thus, Dr Jonathan CHOI Koon-shum, Chairman of the Hong Kong Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, believes that CAEXPO offers good opportunities for both sides between China and ASEAN countries.

Q: What are the expectations or goals for Hong Kong to attend the 11th China – ASEAN Expo?

Dr Jonathan CHOI Koon-shum: Hong Kong hopes to join the free trade area and we have started negotiations. During this Expo, we have met many National Ministers from ASEAN countries. We started negotiations with ASEAN this July, and it has been progressing very well. By joining the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, Hong Kong can bring many benefits to our country. Meanwhile, Hong Kong will get a lot of business opportunities. Hong Kong has cooperation and investment in every ASEAN country. Service trade is relatively strong in Hong Kong, so we can enhance our cooperation in this field.

Q: Does the Hong Kong Chinese General Chamber of Commerce have any plans to promote the cooperation between Hong Kong enterprises as well as ASEAN countries?

Dr Jonathan CHOI Koon-shum: It is the first time for the China – ASEAN Expo to invite Australia as a guest country this year. I think Hong Kong is relatively strong in the modern services industry, especially in the financial field. I believe that Hong Kong can join with mainland enterprises.