Shantou and Chaozhou, two dynamic cities in Eastern Guangdong, are distinguished by their respective strengths – Shantou for its openness to innovation and Chaozhou for its rich historical and cultural heritage. As the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Shantou-Chaozhou-Jieyang metropolitan cluster continue to accelerate in development, both cities are experiencing robust economic growth and emerging as vital engines of regional progress. Their advancements in technology, education and cultural industries are shaping a new era of opportunity.
Shantou, designated as one of China’s Special Economic Zones, capitalizes on its strategic location and favourable policies to cultivate globally oriented enterprises, particularly in AI, the digital economy and advanced manufacturing. Chaozhou, meanwhile, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and intangible cultural assets, including wood carving, opera and ceramics. The city is actively modernizing its traditional crafts and integrating culture with tourism to enhance its global appeal.
To foster deeper engagement and explore collaborative opportunities, the China Committee and Young Executives Club (YEC) will lead a mission to Shantou and Chaozhou from 13 to 14 November 2025. Participants will visit key landmarks, universities and technology enterprises, gaining firsthand insights into the region’s economic landscape and cultural renaissance.
Tentative Itinerary*Itinerary may change: 13 November (Thursday) Hong Kong - Shantou - Take High Speed Rail G6524 (07:25 – 10:19) from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to Shantou Station (Suggested) - Visit to the Shantou University - Meeting and luncheon with senior officials of the Shantou Municipal Government, to gain insights into the city’s latest economic developments - Visit to the Shantou Urban Planning Exhibition Hall - Overnight stay at Crowne Plaza Chaozhou Riverside
14 November (Friday) Chaozhou - Hong Kong - Visits to the Paifang Street, Guangji Tower, and Hanshan Academy - Meeting and luncheon with senior officials of the Chaozhou Municipal Government, to discuss the city’s recent economic progress - Visit to the Chaozhou Youth Cultural and Creative Center - Visit to the Chaozhou Cape Biotechnology Co., Ltd. - Take High Speed Rail G6391 (17:56 – 20:24) from Chaoshan Station back to Hong Kong West Kowloon Station (Suggested) |