Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto)

The 2025 National Conference, hosted by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (HKCBA) and sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto) (HKETO), was held in Ottawa on September 12. The event brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across Canada and Hong Kong to exchange insights on the latest market trends, business outlooks, and opportunities in bilateral trade and investment.

In his welcome remarks, the Acting Director of the HKETO, Mr Gavin Yeung, highlighted Hong Kong’s strategic position, robust legal system, transparent regulatory environment and world-class infrastructure as key advantages for Canadian companies seeking expansion.

“Last year, the total number of local registered companies in Hong Kong surpassed 1.4 million,” said Mr Yeung. “The non-local companies registered also reached a record high of over 15 000. Both figures continue to grow this year.” Mr Yeung further shared that since January 2023, Invest Hong Kong has assisted more than 1 300 Mainland and overseas companies in setting up or expanding their businesses in Hong Kong.

In addition, Mr Yeung remarked on Hong Kong’s vital role amid global economic transformation. “In an ever-changing geopolitical landscape with escalating uncertainties, Hong Kong is the place that promises security and development,” he said. “China continues to be a major growth engine and maintains strong economic momentum while regions such as Canada are rapidly diversifying and strengthening ties with Asia. These developments highlight the importance of new markets and partnerships — areas in which Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to lead.”

The 2025 National Conference, themed “Think Diversification. Think Asia. Think Hong Kong”, featured a keynote address by Mr Martin Cauchon, Vice-Chairman of the Canada China Business Council and former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on “Reset and Diversify: Unlocking Asia Through Hong Kong for Canadian Enterprises”, along with two panel discussions on market developments, innovation strategies, and sector-specific growth opportunities. Mr Christopher Chen, Head of Business and Talent Attraction at Invest Hong Kong in Canada, was among the panel speakers briefing participants on the business opportunities and support in Hong Kong. The event attracted around 150 participants, fostering valuable exchanges and strengthening business partnerships between Canada and Hong Kong.