Europe CommitteeIncoming Visitors

Norman Cheng (COO, Veolia Hong Kong) and Bruno Botella (Dragages Hong Kong) explored how sustainability in the European Union drives business opportunities during the Europe Committee’s roundtable on 8 May. They also shared their decarbonization success stories in Hong Kong.

Cheng noted that Hong Kong and the EU shared many similarities on decarbonization targets and strategies. He highlighted several major funding schemes in the EU, including Horizon Europe and EU Taxonomy, which incentivize green financing and sustainable practices. He also emphasized the production and use of green hydrogen as a crucial element in achieving global decarbonization goals and discussed the possible implications for businesses. 

Botella noted that buildings account for 90% of Hong Kong’s electricity use, presenting major opportunities for energy efficiency solutions. Both speakers acknowledged the city’s progress in its green transition, exemplified by Veolia’s landmark green hydrogen project with Towngas – a significant step toward a sustainable future.
 

We had the pleasure of hosting a business delegation from Türkiye on 14 April, led by the Kocaeli Chamber of Industry (KCI) for fruitful exchanges on opportunities and collaboration. Chamber CEO Patrick Yeung and HKGCC Europe Committee Vice Chairmen Stratos Pourzitakis, PhD and Bjoern Lindner welcomed the guests, alongside leaders from the Asia, Africa & Middle East and Environment and Sustainability committees. 

Accompanied by Dinçer Tatlıoğlu, Commercial Attaché of the Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye, Nurcan Babalik, Chairman of the TOBB Marmara Region Women Entrepreneurs Council and the delegates briefly introduced their companies. KCI representative Mehmet Egemen Mert highlighted Kocaeli’s prominent role in Türkiye’s industrial production. With a population of 2.1 million and 14 organized industrial zones, Kocaeli represents 13% of the country’s manufacturing industry.

Pourzitakis said the Customs Union between the EU and Türkiye has created significant opportunities for the Turkish economy, enhancing the country’s access to the €1.4 trillion EU market. Meanwhile, China’s Belt and Road Initiative, along with Hong Kong’s position as a leading offshore renminbi clearing hub, can facilitate investment for both Hong Kong and Türkiye.

Alison Tsui, Head of International Markets, Consulates and Chambers at Invest Hong Kong, provided valuable insights into the city’s unique status and advantages under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. She also explained how InvestHK can assist overseas and Mainland companies in establishing their businesses here.

It was a pleasure to welcome so many European Consuls General and senior Consulate representatives to our cocktail reception on 2 April!

Hosted by HKGCC's Europe Committee Chairman Alfonso Ballesteros, the gathering offered a valuable platform for members and dignitaries to exchange insights about Europe and expand their business networks.

Chamber Chairman Agnes Chan proposed a toast to the enduring warm relations between Hong Kong and European countries. Cheers to further collaboration and strong connections!