By Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)
More than 1,500 business people from across Canada took part in the largest-ever international business conference held in Toronto. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), "Think Asia, Think Hong Kong" helps companies from Canada, Hong Kong, and the Chinese mainland explore business opportunities using the Hong Kongplatform.
HKTDC-Canada Sign Commercial Arrangement
As part of the main symposium, the HKTDC signed an Arrangement on Mutual Cooperation with Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) to facilitate collaboration in promotion of commercial activities in areas of mutual interest. The arrangement was signed by the Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, Canada and Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC.
Minister Fast said: "Canada and Hong Kong have a long-standing partnership, strengthened by our people-to-people ties. Hong Kongis an important hub for Canadian exports of goods and services to Asia, and this trade promotion arrangement will help our companies work together to take advantage of the rapid growth in the Asia-Pacific region."
Ms. Fong added, "We are pleased to conclude this arrangement with Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada. Based on an already robust trade relationship between Canada and Hong Kong, this arrangement further promotes business opportunities in financial services, logistics, food, technology and intellectual property."
Strong Connections
Guests of honour at the "Think Asia, Think Hong Kong" symposium were Minister Fast and Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive, C.Y. Leung.
Speaking at the symposium, Mr. Leung said Canada and Hong Kong are extended business partners. "I'm here today, leading a delegation of more than 100 high-profile business leaders and government officials, including 27 from the Mainland of China. We're here, because we believe that our strong and longstanding connections, in business and in culture, offer the promise of a far more rewarding future for our two economies and the companies that drive them," Mr. Leung said.
In his welcome remarks, HKTDC Chairman Vincent H.S. Lo highlighted the mainland's "One Belt, One Road" initiative and Hong Kong'scompetitive edge as a gateway to mainland and the region.
"The Chinese mainland is committed to market-driven growth, and no-one knows the mainland markets better than we do in Hong Kong," Mr. Lo said.
"Our strategic position – not only as the gateway to mainland China but also as the global trade hub in Asia – also gives us a natural advantage as a springboard for international companies entering the Asian market."
Explore + Connect = Opportunities
More than 150 business leaders from Hong Kong and the mainland interacted with delegates and businesses from Canada. Networking activities were also arranged and free onsite consultation services were provided by Hong Kong professional service providers. In total, more than 860 business-matching sessions were organised to connect Canadian entrepreneurs with business partners from Hong Kong and the mainland.
Videos:
Think Asia, Think Hong Kong: https://youtu.be/2BAoxSgqsZY
Download photos: http://filesharing.tdc.org.hk/hktdc/download.php?fid=_phpKXBpiy
About the HKTDC
A statutory body established in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is the international marketing arm for Hong Kong-based traders, manufacturers and services providers.
Read more: http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/think-asia-think-hong-kong-toronto-attracts-1500-517908521.html