| Situated at the southeastern tip of China, Hong Kong is ideally
positioned at the center of East Asia, one of the world's most dynamic regions. Hong
Kong has an industrious population of 6.8 million. A hardworking, flexible,
entrepreneurial and well-educated workforce of three million is the bedrock of Hong Kong's
productivity and creativity.
Business in Hong Kong
Being the gateway to the world's fastest growing economy and most exciting new market --
China, Hong Kong is a major conduit for indirect trades between the mainland and other
countries. Described as a 'barren rock' 150 years ago, Hong Kong has since grown into a
world-class financial, trading and business center. Today, the financial service
industries have taken over from manufacturing as Hong Kong's main enterprise. This small
territory was the first developing economy to enter the world's top 10 traders -- Hong
Kong is the world's eighth largest trading economy and the ninth largest exporter of
services.
Hong Kong's service economy embraces a wide spectrum of activities -- finance and
banking, accounting and legal, tourism, telecommunications and media, importing and
exporting, to name a few. In every way, Hong Kong is playing a pivotal role as an
international service center. This role will continue well into the 21st Century,
Climate
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with seasonal changes. In September, the weather will
be cool with low humidity. Normally clear and sunny, the average temperature is 23 C or 73
F, with humidity of 72 %. Shortsleeves, sweaters and light jackets are suggested.
Language
Chinese and English are the official languages. Cantonese is the most widely spoken
Chinese dialect, though Mandarin, Shanghainese and other Chinese dialects are also spoken.
Many people, especially in shops, hotels, and service industries, speak English.
Entry Permits
Visitors must hold a valid passport, endorsed where necessary for Hong Kong. Citizens of
some 24 countries, including USA, Japan, and certain Western European and South American
nations are permitted one-month visa-free visits. Three-month visa-free visits are
available to another 23 countries. Contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic and consular
mission before you depart.
Health Regulations
Vaccination certificates are not required for yellow fever, cholera and typhoid for
visitors travelling to Hong Kong. Check with your travel agent well before your departure,
however, as requirements can change without notice.
Safety
Hong Kong is generally considered a safe city by day or night. The police are very
helpful, and those who speak English wear a red label under their shoulder badge.
Currency
The unit of currency is Hong Kong dollar (HK$). The Hong Kong dollar is pegged to the US
dollar at the rate of US$ 1 = HK$ 7.8. Most foreign currencies and traveler's checks are
easily changed in Hong Kong, at banks, hotels or moneychangers.
Electricity
The voltage in Hong Kong is 200/220 volts, 50 cycles. Most hotels provide adaptors.
Water
All water direct from government mains in Hong Kong satisfies the United Nations World
Health Organization standards. Bottled water is widely available in hotels and
supermarkets.
Telecommunications
Telephones in Hong Kong are advanced, economical and easy to use. Local calls are free,
and many stores and restaurants offer use of a telephone free of charge to patrons. Calls
from public coin phones cost HK$1. Most hotels have International Direct Dialing (IDD).
Long-distance calls can also be made from (IDD) public coin phones. An easy method of
making calls is to purchase stored-value phone cards (HK$50, $150 and $200), which can be
used in any Cardphone box.
Generally, internet access is available in the business centers of hotels. In addition,
in-room computer dataport that allow internet access is offered in most hotels.
Hong Kong Dress Code
Business suit is the normal attire for conducting business.
Travel and Tourism
The Hong Kong Tourism Board has a website that contains comprehensive visitor
information. |
