The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrated its 60th anniversary on June 17 with two key events: the Next 60 Forum and a 60th Anniversary Cocktail Reception, drawing over 1,000 guests from political and business sectors. The forum, moderated by current HKTDC Chairman Prof. Frederick Ma, brought together former chairmen including Dr. Victor Fung, Peter Woo, Jack So, and Vincent Lo, who collectively represent 480 years of experience. They reviewed the council's evolution and Hong Kong's transformation from a manufacturing hub into an international financial and trading center, while also exploring how the city can continue to serve as a superconnector and super value-adder in a changing global landscape.
Prof. Ma emphasized the council's role under 'One Country, Two Systems', stating, 'Hong Kong is guided by national development and is globally responsive, providing a strong foundation for progress. The HKTDC will continue to assist enterprises going global, deepen international exchange, strengthen industry connections, and facilitate substantive cooperation.' The forum featured a pre-recorded address by former Chairman Baroness Dunn, setting the stage for discussions on Hong Kong's economic transformation and future role.
The cocktail reception was officiated by Secretary for Justice of the HKSAR Paul Lam, joined by Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Li Yongsheng, Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office Xu Weigang, President of the Legislative Council Starry Lee, and other government officials including Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law, and Acting Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Joseph Chan. Former chairmen and executive directors also attended.
In his address, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam highlighted the 60-year partnership between the government and the HKTDC, noting, 'In Chinese culture, 60 years represents the completion of a full cycle – it does not mark an end, but a beginning of a new cycle. It reminds us that after six decades of growth, wisdom and achievements, the time has come to welcome a new, and even more successful chapter.'
Looking ahead, the HKTDC plans to seize opportunities from the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, support government initiatives, and assist mainland enterprises in expanding overseas. It will also provide tailored support to five major industry clusters: Finance and Professional Services; Global Network and Supply Chain; Technology and Digital Innovation; Wellness and Creative Industries; and Consumer Goods and Lifestyle. More details are available on the HKTDC’s 60th Anniversary Celebration Activities page.
