Asia, Africa and Middle East CommitteeIncoming Visitors

We had a useful and insightful discussion today on Kazakhstan’s business climate and developments with Almas Seitakynov, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan on 13 February. He explained that FDI into the country represents 61% of all FDI into Central Asia, with the Netherlands being by far the largest investor with US$71.b in projects, followed by the USA, Switzerland and China fourth.

Its strategic location gives it access to major markets, it has been expanding its sea, rail, road and air facilities as its importance on the Belt and Road also increases. It has also been attracting investments in financial and professional services, including from Hong Kong companies.

He also mentioned the Astana International Forum, which takes place from 29-30 in May 2025. This year’s theme revolves around the shared responsibility for collectively building a better world. More details of the forum can be found here https://astanainternationalforum.org/

Today, we had the privilege of welcoming Youssouf Moussa Dawaleh, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Djibouti, who provided valuable insights into the investment potential and business opportunities in this strategically located country in the Horn of Africa.

Dewan Saiful Alam, Chairman of the Asia, Africa, and Middle East Committee, along with Vice Chairmen Yolane Japhet and Zaman Minhas Qamar, welcomed him and recapped discussions from last year's visit by Djibouti's Prime Minister, H.E. Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed.

Dawaleh highlighted Djibouti's role as a critical gateway for transshipments to the surrounding landlocked African hinterland. He also extended an invitation for the Chamber to consider leading a delegation to Djibouti, allowing businesses to explore the opportunities firsthand.

It was a pleasure to welcome H.E. Khalil Hashmi, the Ambassador of Pakistan to China, to the Chamber on January 14. Chairman Agnes Chan greeted him and provided an overview of the HKGCC's work in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and internationally. They also explored ways to help more companies understand the market opportunities in Pakistan.

CEO Patrick Yeung introduced the new Chamber Academy, designed to assist companies in enhancing their knowledge and skills to thrive in the AI and digital age. Dewan Saiful Alam, Chairman of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, along with Vice Chairman Zaman Minhas Qamar, updated the Ambassador and the Consul General of Pakistan in Hong Kong, Riaz Ahmed Shaikh, on the committee's initiatives and market opportunities available for Pakistani companies in Hong Kong.