Strategically located at the heart of Asia and as the gateway to mainland China, Hong Kong has become one of the leading international financial centres. The city’s dynamic entrepreneurial drive, social stability and sophisticated services provide attractive opportunities for companies in the financial and other sectors.

Recognised as the world’s freest global economy, Hong Kong offers many competitive advantages that set the city apart as the first choice in the region for many overseas investors. These include rule of law; a level playing field and unrestricted movement of capital; a pool of skilled, multi-lingual professionals; a transparent regulatory structure that meets the highest international standards; and a simple, low tax regime which create a comfortable and efficient operating environment that actively promotes growth.

The Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) between Hong Kong and mainland China, which took effect on 1 January 2004, provides Hong Kong-based professionals and businesses with “first–mover” and “WTO-plus” advantages in 18 service sectors, including financial services.

Hong Kong – both the private sector and government – is committed to ensuring that the city remains attractive to international companies, particularly in the financial sector.

Today, Hong Kong ranks as:

• Asia’s third largest banking centre (in terms of external banking transaction volume). Most of the world’s leading commercial and investment banks have regional operations in Hong Kong;
• Asia’s second largest stock market (in terms of market capitalisation), just after Tokyo;
• World’s seventh largest foreign exchange centre; and
• Asia’s largest fund management and insurance hub outside Japan.

And if you are interested in taking advantage of these exciting developments, you don’t have to do it alone. As the government department responsible for inward investment, Invest Hong Kong is in business to help you do business. We can supply a step-by-step guide to setting up in Hong Kong, help link you with business partners, guide you through the government regulations and requirements, and provide sector-specific advice – including in the area of financial services. We look forward to the opportunity to assist you in realising your objectives.