For Immediate Release
Senior government officials and C-suite leaders convened at the Singapore-Hong Kong Business Roundtable today (14 January), organized by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) and the Singapore Business Federation (SBF). The conference underscored the immense potential for opportunities and collaboration between two of Asia's economic powerhouses.
Distinguished guests included Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau, Chairman of HKGCC Agnes Chan, Chairman of SBF Lim Ming Yan, and Singapore Consul General to Hong Kong Ong Siew Gay.
Over the years, the two cities have forged several bilateral agreements aimed at enhancing economic cooperation, particularly in trade facilitation, investment and technology partnerships. HKGCC Chairman Agnes Chan emphasized the importance of the Hong Kong-Singapore relationship.
As the event marked the second successful collaboration between HKGCC and SBF, the Chairmen of both organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the roundtable.
“The two economies share a robust and constructive partnership as global leaders in several key sectors and as gateways to wider markets in our respective regions. We will continue to support Hong Kong businesses in expanding their presence in international markets, with ASEAN being a key focus going forward,” said Chan.
SBF Chairman Lim Ming Yan stated: “The Singapore-Hong Kong relationship remains a cornerstone for trade and investment in Asia. Through platforms such as the business roundtable and initiatives such as our partnership with HKGCC, we are building a foundation that empowers businesses to adapt, grow and thrive in an interconnected global economy.”
Following the signing of the MoU, participants engaged in two panel discussions. The first talk, titled “Digital Finance, Innovation and Entrepreneurship,” explored Singapore and Hong Kong’s cross-border transaction systems, regulatory innovation, crypto assets, and enhanced financial integration and data-sharing to benefit decision-makers and customers.
Experts also discussed government policies to foster innovation and cultivate start-up ecosystems. With both economies ranking high in global competitiveness, market collaboration, as well as knowledge and talent sharing, are crucial for growth and expansion into Greater China and Southeast Asia.
During the second panel on “Supply Chains and Climate Change,” industry leaders agreed that collaboration, rather than competition, was essential in a world impacted by post-pandemic supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions. Other topics included the demand for green fuel, China's potential as a leading supplier and expanding Asia’s green corridors to boost energy connectivity. Additionally, they examined the need for far-reaching green building practices to prioritize sustainability and a collective approach among stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
The roundtable successfully facilitated dialogue on key issues and opportunities, reaffirming a mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation and driving growth in the region.
Photo captions:
Photo 1: Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong (centre) spoke on expanding cooperation at the Singapore-Hong Kong Business Roundtable today.
Photo 2: HKGCC Chairman Agnes Chan (2nd from right) and SBF Chairman Lim Ming Yan (2nd from left), signed a Memorandum of Understanding today, witnessed by Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong (right) and Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau (left).
Photo 3: Experts discussed important areas for cooperation in two panels -- Supply Chains and Climate Change, Digital Finance, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, during the conference.
Media inquiries: Please contact Mr Jonathan Man at 2823-1229 / 1229 @chamber.org.hk