The global fashion industry will enjoy a better year in 2002, according to 70 per cent of buyers and exhibitors interviewed at Hong Kong Fashion Week Fall/Winter2002, held from15-18 January at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Some 64 per cent of buyers expected a rebound in the US market, said the survey, which was commissioned by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC). (full story)

The Hong Kong ‘idea’ is stronger than ever and the Hong Kong – US business relationship is better than ever before, is the optimistic opinion of the new Chairman of The American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (AmCham), Jim Thompson. He was speaking at his inaugural luncheon in Hong Kong on 16 January 2002. (full story)

The overwhelming success of the films Harry Potter and Lord
of the Rings will lead to increased sales of movie-related toy products in overseas markets, and portends a turnaround in the entire global toy industry, according to a report by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC). The US, Europe and Japan would see growth of up to 2 per cent over the Christmas and New Year period, said the report. Sales in major overseas markets in the toy industry experienced a 2 per cent year on year increase, as consumers spent more money on toys instead of travelling at Christmas 2001. (full story)

Hong Kong's economy is set to make a strong recovery in the second half of this year, according to two latest business forecasts. (full story)

A record 944 companies set up their regional headquarters in the SAR in 2001 compared with 855 a year earlier, the highest ever figure reported by the 2001 Annual Survey of Regional Offices Representing Overseas Companies in Hong Kong. This was an increase of more than 10 per cent. (full story)

As far as international bankers, accountants and lawyers are concerned, Hong Kong will remain the region's prime business platform for the foreseeable future. (full story)