Rapidly growing numbers of overseas companies are using Hong Kong as a platform, a partner and a risk-manager to capitalise on opportunities in the Chinese mainland, explained Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC) Peter Woo, at the TDC annual dinner in London on 19 November. (full story)

The number of regional operations set up by foreign-owned companies in Hong Kong has increased 7.9 per cent in the 12 months to June 2001 to a record 3,237, according to a survey by the Census and Statistics Department. (full story)

Hong Kong will benefit from a new round of trade talks that involve tearing down trade barriers, says Permanent Representative of Hong Kong to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Stuart Harbinson. As the current chair of the WTO General Council, Hong Kong plays an important role in setting global trade regulations. (full story)

In a historic decision ending 15 years of negotiations, the 142 member countries of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) formally approved China’s admission in Doha, Qatar, on 11 November.

Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation Shi Guangsheng said that China was determined to play by the rules of WTO. He added that by joining, China would provide “more and better business opportunities” for exporters and investors worldwide. (full story)

Overseas business and political leaders speak out about opportunities in Hong Kong after China's WTO entry. They stress the importance of Hong Kong's role as both a platform to access new mainland markets and as a strategic partner. (full story)

The Hong Kong service sector will have new roles to play after
China’s WTO entry, writes Paul Woodward, a business consultant
based in Hong Kong since 1985.

The role of Hong Kong service companies in supporting China business is set to reach new heights following China’s WTO entry. Now, more than ever, Hong Kong’s knowledge and expertise will be critical in helping China connect with overseas companies. (full story)

Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa has announced plans to invest up to HK$2 billion (US$256 million) on a HK$4 billion (US$512 million) second exhibition centre near the airport by 2005. The project, which is expected to reinforce Hong Kong’s competitiveness as a trade fair centre, is also expected to create 3,500 jobs and HK$10 billion (US$1.2 billion) of economic benefits in its first decade of operation. (full story)

As China's economy rises, Hong Kong will rise with it, said Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa at the World Economic Forum's (WEF) East Asia Economic Summit 2001.(full story)