HKGCC Explores New Opportunities and Strengthens Ties in Shanghai and Zhejiang

The Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) recently embarked on a high-profile mission to Shanghai and Zhejiang on November 21-22, with the goal of strengthening partnerships, building new connections, and exploring potential business opportunities. The delegation, led by Chamber Chairman Agnes Chan, included HKGCC leadership and representatives from various international chambers in Hong Kong.

In Shanghai, the delegation met with key officials, including Chen Tong, Standing Committee Member of the Shanghai Municipal Committee and Minister of the Shanghai United Front Work Department. Chen highlighted that Hong Kong accounted for over 60% of foreign investment in Shanghai in 2023, emphasizing Hong Kong’s vital role in helping Shanghai realize its aspirations to become a global leader in economy, finance, trade, shipping, and technology.

Zhu Min, Party Secretary and Director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, discussed the growing economic exchanges between the two cities. He noted that while Shanghai serves as a gateway for companies in the Yangtze River Delta to expand globally, Hong Kong’s expertise in finance and professional services makes it the ideal partner for Mainland companies looking to enter international markets. Zhu expressed hope that the Chamber would continue to act as a “super-connector” to further enhance economic ties.

The delegation also met with Shou Ziqi, Vice Chairman of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the CPPCC and Chairman of the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce, who praised HKGCC’s ongoing support for Shanghai’s economic and social development.

A visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center gave the delegation a closer look at the city’s ambitious urban development projects. Meetings with representatives from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Shanghai) and the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai focused on expanding collaboration and facilitating greater access for Mainland companies to global markets.

The mission continued in Zhejiang, where Lu Shan, Deputy Governor of Zhejiang Province, welcomed the delegation. Lu spoke about the strong economic ties and frequent talent exchanges between Zhejiang and Hong Kong, which have contributed to successful cooperation across multiple sectors. He reaffirmed Zhejiang’s commitment to leveraging its strengths to further deepen collaboration and create new opportunities for both regions.

Reflecting on the trip, Chan stated: ““Hong Kong and Shanghai have long maintained a close relationship, especially in finance and trade. As international cooperation has always been a focus of the Chamber’s work, I hope the trip will help strengthen mutual communication and enhance economic and trade collaboration.”

The Chamber views this outreach initiative as an opportunity to highlight the development and opportunities in Shanghai and Zhejiang to the international community. By leveraging its extensive network, HKGCC aims to facilitate mutual investment and support Mainland enterprises in expanding into global markets.

Delegates meet with Shou Ziqi, Vice Chairman of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the CPPCC and Chairman of the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce, along with representatives from Shanghai businesses

Chen Tong, Standing Committee member of the Shanghai Municipal Committee and Minister of the Shanghai United Front Work Department, welcomes the delegation.

Zhu Min, Party Secretary and Director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, shared insights on Shanghai’s economic and trade development.

Tour of the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center.

The delegation visited Huaguoshan Funtek in ArtInno Town, an industrial park converted from a factory, which now acts as a hub for entrepreneurs and creatives.