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The Hong Kong Exporters' Association (HKEA) Annual Christmas Luncheon was held this year on 14 December, taking place in the luxurious Island Ballroom, the Island Shangri-la Hotel, Hong Kong.
Covering events and trends of preceding months and the coming year, the luncheon hosted the Honourable Henry Tang, HKSAR Financial Secretary, as guest of
honour.
The luncheon was also graced with the attendance of many consul generals representing their nations. This serves to illustrate the unparalleled importance of international collaboration to the HKEA's work, and to commerce in general.
Global Cooperation and Relations Pivotal to Exporting Success
In the opening address made by association Chairman Mr. Tom Tang, he noted strong growth as indication that Hong Kong's economy is headed in the right direction, with exports experiencing continuous expansion. For the third quarter of 2006, merchandise exportation grew 8.9% in real terms.
Mr. Tang noted particular success with respect to Asian markets in mainland China, Singapore, Korea and Taiwan. Other prime destinations mentioned were the US, France and the UK, all registering double-digit gains in October's re-export, with the latter at 16.4%.
Factors to bear in mind when preparing for the coming year, said Mr. Tang, were a potential slowdown in the US economy and changing mainland trade policies, both determinants of viability for HK exporters.
While optimistic that current positive trends will remain in the near future, Mr. Tang related the HKEA's dedication to furthering prospects for Hong Kong exporters by exploring new venues and emerging markets. It was stressed that familiarity with trading partners is an all-important component in ensuring steady growth and mutual prosperity:
"This is an excellent occasion for us and all the guests to get more closely acquainted with each other, and to explore new business opportunities in and collaborations with their nations", said Chairman Tang.
He stated this is a role very well suited to the HKEA and its mission of promoting HK exports.
Hong Kong Exports as a Special Economic Force
Financial Secretary Henry Tang, in his address to the assembled, highlighted HK as the 11th largest trading entity in the world, commending Hong Kong's exporting community and the HKEA for their tireless work in developing the economy and building on HK's clear advantages, which extend to both export and re-export.
One such advantage is proximity to the vast mainland China market, where HK companies have found not only a destination for exports but also almost boundless possibilities for the establishment of manufacturing capacities. CEPA (the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement) was mentioned as an example of the advocacy of Hong Kong exports administered by the HK government.
But in addition to being a two-way platform connecting the mainland with the world, Hong Kong must remain aware of its unique position:
"We cannot afford to set our sights on the mainland market only and neglect other forces that are rapidly reshaping the global economy. Hong Kong needs to continue to consolidate our status as an international business hub", said Secretary Tang.
Mr. Tang additionally reiterated commitments to improving Hong Kong¡¦s financial, trade and shipping centre status stipulated in the 11th Five Year Plan designed by the central government, as a sign that support for exporters extends beyond the local stage.
Working Together for Forward Movement
Special mention was made by the secretary of the Style Hong Kong fair and a trade mission to Russia, both jointly organised by the HKEA and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council
(HKTDC) to great success. Another organisation working in tandem with these towards boosting Hong Kong trade is the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation
(HKECIC), whom Mr. Tang also thanked.
The secretary explained these associations, and others, are crucial in promoting HK trading capabilities, especially helping small and medium enterprises, who constitute the majority of companies.
Mr. Tang stated a strong trading sector can carry the entire economy forward, and therefore commands unwavering support from government on all levels.
In closing, Secretary Tang thanked the HKEA once more for their contribution to HK¡¦s economic development and wish our exporters an even more successful year ahead. |
