The Hong Kong - Shenzhen Western Corridor (artist impression) zoom-in

The combination of Hong Kong's world-leading financial, professional and logistics services and competitive manufacturing in the PRD has created one of the world's most successful trading areas. Hong Kong companies already own and manage many businesses in the PRD and the improved links have been warmly welcomed by businesses across the board.

Already under construction is a new multi-lane expressway between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, scheduled for completion by 2005. The new Hong Kong-Shenzhen corridor will cater for more than 120,000 vehicles each day.

"The increasingly close communications between Hong Kong and the mainland have intensified cross-boundary traffic demand, making the corridor essential," said Mr Tung. It is estimated that the net economic benefit of the Corridor will be HK$175 billion over the 20 year planning horizon from 2000 to 2020.

Other major transport projects include a bridge linking Hong Kong, Macau and Zhuhai, on the west side of the PRD and an express rail link between Hong Kong and Guangzhou. Both are still in the development stage, but have received wide spread support from across the Greater PRD region.

"To build the Shenzhen Western Corridor, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and the regional express rail link between Hong Kong and Guangzhou, will fulfil our goal of transforming the Greater PRD into the most vibrant and competitive international economic zone in the world," said Mr Tung.

More details at "West bridge to bring massive economic benefits."