Hong Kong leader to push mainland Chinese market access on visit to Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam

John Lee says he will strengthen ties with three Asean countries, and seek support for bid to join world’s biggest free trade pact

Reading Time:2 minutes

Hong Kong is sending a delegation to Vientiane in Laos for the first leg of its Asean trip. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 3:58pm, 28 Jul 2024Updated: 5:18pm, 28 Jul 2024

Hong Kong’s leader will promote the city’s role as a connector to the vast mainland Chinese market during his nearly week-long trip to three Southeast Asian nations with an emphasis on people-to-people exchanges.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Sunday also pledged to lobby for the city’s accession to RCEP, the world’s biggest free trade agreement, as he visited member nations Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

“[We will] strengthen communication and networks at a government level,” he told reporters just before leaving the city for the Laotian capital.

“I will meet with local leaders to introduce Hong Kong’s economic development and opportunities, and will continue to strive for their support in our application to join RCEP.”

The city applied to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in January 2022 and its request is currently being reviewed.

“We will also introduce what we can offer, including professional services, our experience, our networks and how we can lead them to enjoy Hong Kong’s opportunities and also enter the mainland market,” Lee said.

The chief executive also said his delegation, which includes more than 30 representatives from various sectors, would promote people-to-people exchanges on topics such as tourism, education, talent and young people.