On May 9, 2025, the Hong Kong Chinese Manufacturers' Association held a summit forum titled "Leveraging Hong Kong's Advantages and Deepening International Cooperation" at the Hong Kong Grand Hyatt Hotel. This event attracted over 200 guests from diverse fields, including politics, academia, and business, to discuss the new directions for Hong Kong's international development.
The forum featured keynote speeches from Chen Baoli, the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, and Ip Lau Suk-yee, a Legislative Council member and convener of the Executive Council. Lu Jinrong, President of the Manufacturers' Association, opened the forum by emphasizing that internationalization is the foundation and backdrop of Hong Kong's economic success. He noted that the key driving force behind every economic leap in Hong Kong has been internationalization.
In his welcoming address, Lu Jinrong stated, "Internationalization is the foundation and background color of Hong Kong, and Hong Kong's economic take-off is inseparable from the key driving force of internationalization." He further articulated the necessity for Hong Kong to steadfastly implement the principle of "One Country, Two Systems," which he believes is crucial for consolidating the advantage of "backing the motherland and connecting to the world."
Lu Jinrong urged the construction of a diversified international network, positioning Hong Kong as a "strategic command tower" and "super value adder" for enterprises' globalization operations. He announced that the Manufacturers' Association would continue to actively promote international exchanges, including sending a delegation to the Middle East for inspections in mid-May and organizing an annual Consular Corps Cocktail Reception in August.
Chen Baoli reinforced the unique position of Hong Kong as the only economy globally that integrates China's advantages with global benefits. He described Hong Kong as a leading international financial, shipping, and trade center, highlighting its role in facilitating the free flow of people, goods, capital, and information. Chen stated, "Hong Kong should consider its role and mission in the current turbulent international environment to promote Hong Kong's sustainable economic development."
He emphasized the importance of Hong Kong's capabilities in serving as a dual platform for both "bringing in" and "going out" initiatives, essential for enhancing international cooperation. Chen Baoli mentioned that the Investment Promotion Agency had implemented a high value-added supply chain service mechanism in December 2024 to provide one-stop consultation services for mainland enterprises operating in Hong Kong. This initiative aligns with the expectations expressed by Premier Li Qiang regarding Hong Kong's role in international trade.
Ip Lau Suk-yee, in her speech, reiterated the central government's directives for Hong Kong and Macau to leverage their unique advantages and strengthen "internal and external connections." She cited the importance of the "Foreign Relations Law" passed by the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee in June 2023, which encourages the development of non-governmental foreign friendly exchanges and cooperation. Ip expressed her hope that the ongoing Sino-US trade war would not become a permanent fixture in international relations.
In a related development, Chengdu's Michelin-star restaurant, Chengdu Yan, is set to open its flagship store in Hong Kong as part of its internationalization strategy. Lau Chi-yuen, Assistant Director-General of Investment Promotion, welcomed Chengdu Yan's entry into Hong Kong's vibrant catering market, stating, "We are very pleased to welcome Chengdu Yan to Hong Kong's vibrant catering market. Their choice of Hong Kong as a critical base for international expansion underscores the city's role as an ideal launchpad for quality brands aiming to enhance their global presence while enriching our diverse culinary culture."
The restaurant, operated by Xiang Tianxia Group, is located in the bustling Lan Kwai Fong area of Central. He Yu, President of Xiang Tianxia Group, explained that Hong Kong was chosen for its favorable geographical advantages and diverse food culture, positioning it as a vital hub connecting mainland China to the international market. He stated, "Hong Kong is not only a global financial center but also a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures and cuisines. Our flagship store will serve as the global headquarters for Chengdu Yan and a starting point for expanding into the international market."
He Yu expressed his commitment to showcasing the essence of Sichuan culinary culture through the restaurant, which will offer high-end Sichuan dining experiences while also adapting to local tastes. The restaurant will feature signature cold dishes, roasted meats, seafood, soups, and a variety of Sichuan specialties, maintaining the brand's original flavors while making refined adjustments for the local market.
Xiang Tianxia Group currently operates over 600 restaurants across seven countries and 33 cities worldwide, boasting more than 30 catering brands, including Chengdu Yan and another Michelin-recommended brand, Daxi Sichuan Cuisine. As they prepare to launch their flagship store, the group is also in discussions to open a second location in Hong Kong and plans to establish an international professional team to strengthen their brand presence.
These developments highlight Hong Kong's pivotal role as a strategic location for international business and cultural exchange, reinforcing its status as a global culinary capital and a hub for international cooperation.