Frank Martin (left) was presented the "To Peace and Commerce" Award by US Consul General in Hong Kong, James Keith, on 11 January

Frank Martin is retiring this month, after 14 years as president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. Mr Martin's wide-reaching contribution to Hong Kong's business community has been widely recognised, both by the Hong Kong government and most recently by the US Department of Commerce, from which he received the prestigious To Peace and Commerce Award for outstanding efforts to foster American/Hong Kong trade relations.

 

In a personal letter from US President, George W. Bush, Mr Martin was thanked for his "unwavering support of US interests" and his role in "promoting the value of free enterprise, free trade, rule of law, and ethical and responsible business practices in Hong Kong."

 

Frank Martin looks back over nearly three decades, and tells us about his "retirement" plans in Scottsdale, Arizona:

 

"It's not every day I get a letter from the President of the United States, so my final weeks in Hong Kong have certainly been memorable. It was an honour and a major recognition of my contribution to bringing down trade barriers between China, Hong Kong and the US.

 

In fact, all the years I've been in Hong Kong have been memorable. I first arrived in 1976 and it is fascinating to look back on the incredible changes, both in my life and that of this amazing city.

 

When my wife and I first arrived, we planned to stay for three years - maybe five at most. And now it's been home for almost 30 years.

 

Over this time, there have been so many changes - the reversion of sovereignty, an ever-changing skyline and the amazing business developments as Hong Kong has moved economically closer to China. I remember the first time I visited Shenzhen [just across the boundary from Hong Kong in southern China]. My wife and I were hoping to get our first glimpse of someone from the mainland. But there were only rice paddies and open space. Look at Shenzhen today - the difference is stunning.

 

But despite all the changes the overwhelming attraction of Hong Kong, especially as a business city remains the same.

 

I've seen the Asian economic financial crisis, avian flu and Sars. I've witnessed firsthand Hong Kong's amazing transformation from a manufacturing centre, to a world-leading service centre. It's a place where, whatever life throws at you, Hong Kong emerges stronger than ever. Its best asset is its resilience and ability to adapt and bounce back.

 

Why American businesses choose Hong Kong

 

It's a question I'm often asked: how have things changed and is Hong Kong worried about being overtaken by the Chinese mainland? For me the answer is simple. Hong Kong has 160 years of international business experience, a stable and fully-convertible currency pegged to the US dollar, complete freedom of information, rule of law, enviably low taxes and minimal corruption.

 

For an international business, these things are essential. China is coming on in leaps and bounds, but the level of development and sophistication you find in Hong Kong can't be copied overnight.

 

My background is in financial services and these things are essential - and not just for my sector. US companies come to Hong Kong because of the attractiveness of the business environment. Since I've been at the American Chamber the number of US companies has risen dramatically - and is still rising.

 

Hong Kong will continue to be an essential force in the region. Of course we have challenges - the environment and corporate governance need attention, and the Chamber will continue to address these issues on behalf of our members.

 

But you can't ignore the potential in this region. As the mainland opens up, Hong Kong is playing a leading role in connecting US companies with new customers in China, and helping mainland companies interested in doing business in the US.

 

Business aside, my favourite thing about Hong Kong is the close relationships I've built. There is an incredible international community here, and we have a large group of friends. This city is also an amazingly convenient base for travel around Asia. My wife and I must have visited almost every country in the region during our time.

 

And for someone with a family, Hong Kong has a world-class education system and is such a safe city. Unlike some inner cities in the US, I never have to worry about my children here!

 

A different continent - but never far away from Hong Kong!

 

Despite heading back to Arizona, I'll never be far from Hong Kong - we've already set up the Hong Kong Arizona Association! Surprisingly, many former Hong Kong residents are now living in Scottsdale. We'll be having a Chinese New Year dinner in February with more than 30 ex-Hong Kong residents.

 

Although we'll officially leave Hong Kong in February, I have a great excuse to come back often. My son and daughter-in-law live here. And naturally, I'll return in March for the AmCham ball and the Hong Kong World Cup Rugby Sevens. I haven't missed the Sevens in 29 years and this year will be no different!

 

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American Chamber of Commerce