Hong Kong seeks deeper ties with Middle East through strategic visit

On April 10, 2025, Charles Ng, the Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), finished his visit to the Middle East, which included stops in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dubai. The visit aimed to emphasize Hong Kong's strategic role as a gateway for Middle Eastern businesses looking to expand into the Asia-Pacific region, particularly Mainland China. Ng engaged with various business leaders and stakeholders, showcasing the advantages Hong Kong offers as a global financial hub and an innovation center. Collaboration in areas such as finance, technology, and sustainability was promoted during discussions. Ng participated in high-level business roundtables themed 'Hong Kong Growth Dialogues: Building Asia’s Future Super-Corridor,' sponsored by Asia House. He highlighted the opportunities arising from significant developments such as the Northern Metropolis and West Kowloon Cultural District, emphasizing the benefits of Hong Kong's strategic positioning in the current economic landscape. Ng stated that the city's connectivity with Middle Eastern strategies, including Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Centennial 2071, could foster mutual economic growth. Furthermore, Ng promoted Hong Kong's capabilities in Islamic finance, pointing out its successful issuance of government sukuk and how the city provides a level playing field for Shariah-compliant products through tax neutrality. Local leaders expressed interest in Hong Kong's business ecosystem during the roundtable discussions, noting the city's strong rule of law and robust financial infrastructures. This marks a continued trend of deepening financial and economic ties between Hong Kong and the Middle East, facilitating cross-border investments and economic collaborations as both regions navigate an evolving global marketplace. This visit by Hong Kong officials reflects a broader strategic initiative aimed at forging stronger international partnerships and enhancing investment flows. As global economic dynamics shift, initiatives like these are crucial for both regions to capitalize on shared strengths and opportunities while positioning themselves favorably in the international arena.