HKTDC 60th: Former Chairmen Chart Hong Kong's Next Chapter

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) marked its 60th anniversary with two major events—the Next 60 Forum and 60th Anniversary Cocktail Reception—drawing over 1,000 political and business leaders. HKTDC Chairman Prof Frederick Ma moderated a forum featuring former chairmen Dr Victor Fung, Peter Woo, Jack So, and Vincent Lo, who together represent 480 years of collective experience. They discussed Hong Kong's evolution from a manufacturing hub to a global financial center and its future as a superconnector under 'One Country, Two Systems'. Secretary for Justice Paul Lam officiated the reception, joined by officials including Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng and Legislative Council President Starry Lee. The HKTDC unveiled plans to align with national strategies like the 15th Five-Year Plan, support enterprises going global, and focus on five industry clusters: Finance and Professional Services; Global Network and Supply Chain; Technology and Digital Innovation; Wellness and Creative Industries; and Consumer Goods and Lifestyle. The council will also deepen international exchange and strengthen industry connections. Prof Ma emphasized resilience, stating, 'The future looks bright... Hong Kong remains a beacon of hope.' Paul Lam noted that in Chinese culture, 60 years marks not an end but a new beginning. The events featured a pre-recorded address by former Chair Baroness Dunn and were covered by NEWMEDIAWIRE. The HKTDC, a statutory body established in 1966, promotes trade through over 50 global offices, international exhibitions, conferences, business missions, research reports, and digital news channels.