Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto)

Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto) (HKETO), Ms Emily Mo, spoke at the virtual forum organised by the Association of Chinese Canadian Entrepreneurs on October 15. This forum aims to explore business pivots and innovation strategies to prepare businesses and entrepreneurs for the new economy.

In delivering the opening remarks, Ms Mo congratulated the Association for its forum to support and unite the Chinese Canadian business community across Canada.  She also commended the Association for promoting the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation and corporate social responsibility for small businesses, women and youth entrepreneurs during the pandemic.

Ms Mo moved on to update participants that the COVID-19 situation in Hong Kong, as the city is fighting the pandemic tirelessly like many other countries. “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has adopted a comprehensive and co-ordinated approach to contain the spread of COVID-19,” Ms Mo said.  

As regards the economy, Hong Kong's strong economic fundamentals and ample reserves enable its economy to navigate through the current challenges and ensure continued macroeconomic stability.  The city is also supported by the solid economic recovery of the Mainland of China and some Asian regions.

Besides, Ms Mo noted that Hong Kong was again rated by the Canada-based Fraser Institute last month as the world’s freest economy. “This is certainly an unambiguous recognition of Hong Kong’s long-standing commitment to building a free economy with a level playing field,” Ms Mo added.

In view of some recent speculation of Hong Kong’s rule of law and freedoms being possibly undermined, Ms Mo reiterated that the rule of law as well as the various legitimate rights and freedoms are the fundamental core values of Hong Kong and are much cherished by the HKSAR Government and community.

Before closing, Ms Mo encouraged companies at the forum that are considering to expand to China and the rest of Asia to make use of the Hong Kong platform.  

The one-day forum aims to connect participants with leading thinkers, industry influences and business experts through keynote speech, panel discussion and breakout sessions.  HKETO’s Head of Investment Promotion, Mr Christopher Chen, hosted a breakout session to introduce the services and support offered by InvestHK for Canadians companies that are planning to set up in Hong Kong.