Hong Kong is seeking to strengthen its position as an international financial centre by expanding its equity markets, deepening offshore yuan business and developing new areas of financial activity under the city’s first five-year development plan.
The 2026-2030 plan, unveiled by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Sept 16, places financial services at the centre of efforts to attract international capital, talent and financial institutions.
Hong Kong plans to strengthen its role as the world’s largest offshore renminbi business hub while expanding products and infrastructure that allow investors to use the yuan for financing, investment and cross-border transactions.
The government also intends to broaden the city’s wealth-management industry by attracting more international and mainland Chinese family offices, sovereign wealth funds and other long-term investors.
The plan calls for improvements to Hong Kong’s equity and bond markets, including efforts to increase market depth, liquidity and the range of available financial products.
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing is expected to study adjustments to listing requirements for technology companies considered strategically important. Authorities also plan to expand channels for overseas companies to list in Hong Kong.
The government is seeking to attract more international financial institutions to establish regional headquarters or offices in the city. It also aims to strengthen cooperation with financial centres and emerging markets across Asia, the Middle East and other regions.
Gold trading is another area targeted for expansion. Hong Kong plans to establish its first central clearing and settlement system for gold in the first quarter of 2027, creating additional infrastructure for the city’s commodities market.
Digital finance will also feature in the development strategy. Hong Kong plans to introduce central bank digital currency settlement by the end of 2026 and gradually expand the use of digital government bonds.
The city’s financial strategy comes as Hong Kong seeks to maintain its position among the world’s leading financial centres while facing competition from New York, London, Singapore and other international hubs.
The government has also identified technology, maritime services, trade and high-calibre talent as other areas that can support economic growth. The Northern Metropolis development near the mainland border is expected to play a major role in strengthening connections with the Greater Bay Area.
Hong Kong’s latest strategy is closely aligned with China’s national five-year plan for 2026 to 2030. Officials say the city will continue to use its international financial system and its position as a link between mainland China and overseas markets to attract investment.
The plan also calls for closer financial integration with mainland markets through mechanisms such as Stock Connect, Bond Connect, Wealth Management Connect and Private Equity Connect.
By broadening its financial products, strengthening links with mainland China and expanding connections with international investors, Hong Kong is seeking to reinforce its role as a gateway between global capital and the Chinese economy over the next five years.
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