Editorial | Hong Kong must make the most of its impressive economic comeback

The message that Hong Kong is the ideal place for business and investment amid intensifying geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainties has been amplified in a new report released on Wednesday. Titled “Unique Strengths under ‘One Country, Two Systems’”, the 102-page report is loaded with data and facts that speak for themselves. For instance, InvestHK helped 1,300 mainland and overseas enterprises set up or expand their operations here from January 2023 to the first half of 2025, bringing in more than HK$160 billion (US$20.4 billion) in investment.

The daily turnover on the stock market in the first half of the year was up by 120 per cent to about HK$240 billion. The 52 initial public offerings in the first seven months raised HK$130 billion, a sixfold increase from the same period last year. The local economy continues to grow and diversify, with more new strategic industries being developed. The business network is also expanding from traditional Western partners to the Middle East and Southeast Asian regions. The authorities should help more businesses open doors and cut red tape to create an even more business-friendly culture and environment.

This success owes much to Beijing’s firm support under the “one country, two systems” formula of success. The city’s unique edge under “two systems”, including the common law system and free market, continues to set it apart from mainland China, while “one country” enables it to capitalise on the opportunities arising from robust national development and play the role of “superconnector” and “super value-adder”.

Now that stability and prosperity have returned, the city must seize the momentum for new growth. All eyes will be on China when the ruling Communist Party convenes a key annual conclave in October to deliberate on the next five-year plan for the country’s economic, political and social goals. The Hong Kong authorities must be prepared and ensure the city positions itself well to benefit from and contribute to the enterprise.