InvestHK is poised to strengthen its strategic initiatives for 2024-2025, aiming to boost Hong Kong’s economic stature and attract international investment. Led by CEO Chen Jiaqi, these initiatives focus not just on immediate financial returns, but also on enriching the local economy and ensuring Hong Kong remains competitive on the global stage.
Chen, speaking during a radio interview, emphasized the need for rational medium- to long-term returns on investments. "要爭取中長期合理財務回報,亦要兼顧本港的競爭力,明年將會提速提量,計劃率團到訪東南亞及中東,把香港品牌帶出去," she stated. Her vision is to expand not only the opportunities available within Hong Kong but to also position the city as a leading business hub for foreign enterprises.
To achieve this, Chen has set her sight on sectors ripe for development. The focus is heavily on innovative fields such as life sciences and renewable energy, which she described as having significant prospects for growth. "我們要如何把每一元發揮最大用處," she reiterated, highlighting the strategic investments made to connect promising local companies with international resources.
With over 80 companies already invested in since its inception, Chen is confident about the company’s ability to propel innovation. For 2024, plans are underway to establish strategic partnerships and engage with companies demonstrating advanced technology and research capabilities. Chen elaborated, saying, "希望將投資發揮至最大用處,會因應公司或團隊的財務及業務是否滿足需求,以及對香港實體經濟的貢獻及承諾等作篩選." This selective approach aims to align with InvestHK’s mission to create positive impacts on the local economy.
Chen believes engaging with overseas firms is pivotal. Notably, she emphasized the importance of establishing connections with industries relevant to Hong Kong’s developmental goals. "我們要如何把每一元發揮最大用處," she stated, stressing the need for prudent investment strategies. The additional goal is to facilitate Hong Kong companies venturing abroad, particularly to regions like Southeast Asia and the Middle East where collaboration avenues are abundant.
One of the exciting undertakings includes the strategic cooperation agreements with AI companies, which have paved the way for opening research institutes. "港投公司早前與人工智能(AI)企業思謀簽定戰略合作協議,在港開設首個人工智能研究院," said Chen. This move not only enhances Hong Kong’s standing as a tech innovation leader but also draws attention from renowned scholars worldwide, particularly at local educational institutions.
Despite the ambitious plans, Chen maintains cautious optimism. She noted the need to carefully analyze opportunities and risks. Investment decisions will be made based on the company’s lifecycle stages and potential milestone achievements to spread risk effectively.
Looking forward, InvestHK will be proactive. Chen plans to lead her team to Southeast Asia and the Middle East next year, summarizing the experiences gained and exploring fresh prospects. "陳家齊說:我們希望在這個基礎上一直推展下去," she remarked on the global imperatives guiding these strategic directions. Both regions present themselves as fertile grounds for collaboration, particularly for companies aligned with Hong Kong’s strategic missions.
With climate change and globalization posing both challenges and opportunities, Chen is resolute about leveraging these aspects to swift growth. By assisting local firms expand their market reach to Southeast Asia and beyond, she envisions establishing sustainable business pathways.
Her focus is on ensuring the commitment of InvestHK’s investments translates to tangible outcomes, promising to make insightful choices reflecting the needs of Hong Kong's economy. For Chen, the ultimate aim is creating lasting value through strategic investments, building bridges between local businesses and international opportunities.
With 2024 on the horizon, the stakes are high for Hong Kong Investment Management Company. Chen Jiaqi exemplifies leadership through her strategic foresight, balancing risks and opportunities as the company navigates the complex, ever-evolving global economic environment. The results of these initiatives may well define the future economic narrative of Hong Kong.