As Chief Executive John Lee will deliver his first Policy Address on 19 October, the business community hopes that the Government will roll out concrete measures to address three major issues. First of all, a timetable and roadmap should be set out for fully reopening the border. Second, Hong Kong has to rebuild its international image by launching a series of promotional events under the theme “Hong Kong Welcomes You.” The third is to formulate policies to attract talent and map out development plans for the next five to ten years.

As an international financial, trade and shipping centre, Hong Kong’s unique strength of connecting with the world is crucial to our economic lifeblood. As such, reopening to the world has been a strong plea from the business sector, which is essential for reviving our economy, as well as attracting talent and investment.

Therefore, with the pandemic situation under control and precise and targeted anti-epidemic measures in place, we were very pleased that the Government last month announced it would end quarantine requirements for inbound travellers starting 26 September. We hope this positive step to “0+3” will soon be followed by an end to all travel restrictions, and these will also be expanded to all sectors of the economy. As long as the risks remain manageable with the support of data, further relaxation can be allowed at a faster pace.

Hong Kong will host a number of international forums and large-scale events in October and November, which will present an opportunity for the Government to share with the international community the message that “Hong Kong welcomes you,” and to show that Hong Kong is ready to reconnect seamlessly with the rest of the world.

On the other hand, a post-pandemic global talent race has begun. Singapore, Hong Kong’s major competitor, recently introduced a new working visa named “Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass” to attract top talent from around the world. 

In response, Hong Kong should take bold, swift and precise action to attract talent, businesses and investment. These could be tailor-made tax incentives, and providing land for designated use at a concessionary premium, with a view to attracting financial and I&T businesses to operate here. 

As the saying goes, “with crisis comes opportunity.” The Government must race against time to fully resume travel and attract talent with preferential policies. I hope that the Government can lead Hong Kong’s 7 million people through the stormy seas together and head for a new golden era of growth.

Jeffrey Lam
jeffrey@jeffreylam.hk